What is the three characteristics that mid-latitude cyclones have in common with all cyclones
http://www-das.uwyo.edu/~zwang/atsc2000/Ch13.pdf
Mid-latitude cyclones, also known as extratropical cyclones, have three characteristics in common with all cyclones: rotation, low-pressure center, and converging winds.
To understand these characteristics, it's helpful to know that cyclones are large scale weather systems that involve the circulation of air around a central low-pressure area. Let's dive into each characteristic:
1. Rotation: All cyclones, including mid-latitude ones, have cyclonic rotation. In the Northern Hemisphere, this means a counterclockwise rotation, while in the Southern Hemisphere, cyclones rotate clockwise. This rotation is a result of the Coriolis effect, which is caused by the Earth's rotation. As air converges towards the low-pressure center of the cyclone, it is deflected due to the Coriolis effect, resulting in a cyclonic flow pattern.
2. Low-pressure center: Cyclones are characterized by a central low-pressure area. The air pressure at the core of a cyclone is lower compared to the surrounding areas. This low-pressure center is responsible for drawing in air from the surrounding regions. As air converges towards the center, it rises, cools, and condenses, leading to cloud formation and often precipitation.
3. Converging winds: Another common characteristic of cyclones, including mid-latitude cyclones, is the presence of converging winds. As air flows towards the low-pressure center of the cyclone, it creates a convergence zone. This convergence leads to the upward movement of air, resulting in cloud development and atmospheric instability. It also generates strong wind patterns around the cyclone, with the greatest intensity generally found near the cyclone's center.
Overall, these three characteristics - rotation, low-pressure center, and converging winds - are shared by all cyclones, including mid-latitude cyclones. Understanding these features helps in identifying and studying these significant weather systems.