Wind Systems

Convection in the Atmosphere – Local Winds Wind is the movement of air from higher pressure to lower pressure.

Global Wind Systems: Result from unequal heating of the Earth’s surface Important in spreading thermal energy around the Earth

6 Major Wind Belts Trade Winds Westerlies Polar Easterlies Move E  W between the equator & 30° N and S latitudes Westerlies Move W  E between 30° & 60° N and S latitudes Move much of the weather across N. America Polar Easterlies Move E  W between 60° & 90° N and S latitudes Move cold air from the poles back towards the equator

6 Major Wind Belts

Remember: Good science checks the facts! Created by: Convection Currents Warm air nearer to the equator is less dense so rises & cool air nearer the poles is denser so sinks Coriolis Effect A change in the direction of moving air, water or other objects on/near the Earth’s surface due to the Earth’s rotation Remember: Good science checks the facts!

Coriolis Effect