Atmospheric Systems and Climate Review Flashcards

Flashcards covering key concepts from the lecture on atmospheric systems, including the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ), trade winds, pressure systems, and their effects on global climates. These flashcards are designed to help you review and prepare for the exam.

What is the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ)?

Area around the Equator where wind bands converge, following the sun's movement.

What are the trade winds?

Wind bands that converge in the ITCZ, including Northeast and Southeast variations.

What is the torrid zone?

The zone where Earth receives direct solar radiation, between 23.5°S and 23.5°N.

What is a low-pressure zone?

A zone where air rises, leading to cloud formation and rainfall.

What is a barometer?

A device used to measure atmospheric pressure.

What is the Hadley cell?

A rotational system distributing energy; air rises in tropics, descends in subtropics.

What is the Coriolis Effect?

Deflection of moving objects due to Earth's rotation (right in N. Hemisphere, left in S. Hemisphere).

What is a subtropical high-pressure system?

A high-pressure system where air descends, typically around 30°N and 3