Atmosphere Circulation Quick Check
1. What causes atmospheric circulation?
- Atmospheric circulation is caused by the uneven heating of Earth's surface by the sun, which creates differences in temperature and pressure that drive the movement of air masses.
2. How does atmospheric circulation affect weather patterns?
- Atmospheric circulation helps to distribute heat and moisture around the globe, influencing weather patterns such as wind patterns, precipitation, and temperature variations.
3. What are the major wind belts in Earth's atmosphere?
- The major wind belts in Earth's atmosphere include the polar easterlies, the westerlies, and the trade winds.
4. How do ocean currents interact with atmospheric circulation?
- Ocean currents are influenced by atmospheric circulation patterns, such as the trade winds and westerlies, which can impact the direction and speed of the currents. In turn, ocean currents can also influence atmospheric circulation by affecting factors like temperature and moisture distribution.