what determines the movement of global winds
A.humidity and temperature
B.Prevailing winds and upper air currents
C. Coriolis effect and the convec currents
D. All of these
http://kids.earth.nasa.gov/archive/nino/global.html
The movement of global winds is determined by several factors, including the Earth's rotation, differences in temperature, pressure gradients, and the Coriolis effect.
1. Earth's Rotation: The rotation of the Earth causes the Coriolis effect, which deflects the path of moving air. In the Northern Hemisphere, the deflection is to the right, while in the Southern Hemisphere, it is to the left. This effect influences the direction of winds.
2. Temperature Differences: Uneven heating of the Earth's surface by the Sun leads to temperature variations. Warm air rises near the equator, creating a low-pressure zone, while cooler air sinks at the poles, creating a high-pressure zone. These temperature differences generate pressure gradients that influence wind patterns.
3. Pressure Gradients: Air naturally moves from areas of high pressure to areas of low pressure. The pressure gradient force determines the speed and direction of wind flow. Winds blow from high-pressure regions to low-pressure regions, but due to the Coriolis effect, they are deflected, resulting in the formation of different wind belts.
4. Coriolis Effect: As mentioned earlier, the rotation of the Earth causes the deflection of moving air. The Coriolis effect causes winds to shift slightly from a straight line as they move across the Earth's surface. This deflection causes winds to follow curved paths, known as geostrophic winds.
Additionally, other factors such as land and water formations, topographic barriers, ocean currents, and weather systems can influence the movement of global winds to a certain extent.
To determine more specific information about global wind patterns, meteorologists and climatologists use various instruments like anemometers to measure wind speed, barometers to measure pressure, and weather balloons to collect data at different altitudes. They also use computer models and satellite data to analyze and predict global wind patterns.