Explain the creation of westerly winds in the upper atmosphere at mid-latitudes and account for seasonal variations in their strength

What will be an ideal response?


Answer: There is always a pressure gradient force across the middle latitudes trying to push the air toward the poles. In the absence of friction, the winds do not blow poleward, but rather blow parallel to the height contours, from west to east. The pressure gradient force is strongest in winter (the height contours are closely spaced), so the upper-level westerlies are strongest in winter. This explains why most midlatitude weather systems migrate from west to east.

Environmental & Atmospheric Sciences

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When tornadoes develop it is usually in association with air-mass thunderstorms

Indicate whether the statement is true or false

Environmental & Atmospheric Sciences

The ____________________ degree-day is based on the assumption that people will begin to use their furnaces when the mean daily temperature drops below 65 degrees Fahrenheit

Fill in the blank with correct word.

Environmental & Atmospheric Sciences

  In the graph of precipitation and temperature, desert biomes would fall in the area marked by the letter:

A. A B. B C. C D. D E. E

Environmental & Atmospheric Sciences

Which of the following is not an element of cultural diversity?

A) language B) religion C) ethnicity D) race E) art

Environmental & Atmospheric Sciences