Lecture 16: Atmospheric Circulation

What are Global Wind Patterns?

Hadley, Ferrel, Polar cells - three circulation cells that drive atmospheric circulation

What are Trade Winds?

0-30° latitude, easterlies (blow from east to west)

What are Westerlies?

30-60° latitude (blow from west to east)

What are Polar Easterlies?

60-90° latitude (from pole towards equator)

What is the ITCZ (Intertropical Convergence Zone)?

Low pressure belt at equator where trade winds converge

What are Subtropical Highs?

High pressure zones at 30°N and 30°S where deserts are typically located

What are Jet Streams?

Fast upper-level winds at boundaries of cells (between circulation cells)

What are Monsoons?

Seasonal wind reversals (summer = wet, winter = dry)