The Coriolis force is an apparent force caused by the Earth's rotation, which deflects the path of moving objects to the right in the Northern Hemisphere and to the left in the Southern Hemisphere. It is crucial for understanding large-scale atmospheric and oceanic circulation patterns, influencing weather systems and ocean currents globally.

Coriolis Force

Coriolis force

Earth's rotation refers to the spinning of the planet around its axis, which takes approximately 24 hours to complete and is responsible for the cycle of day and night. This rotation affects various phenomena such as the Coriolis effect, time zones, and the apparent motion of stars in the sky.

Earth's rotation

Apparent force, also known as fictitious or pseudo force, arises when observing motion from a non-inertial reference frame, giving the illusion that an external force is acting on a body. These forces, such as the Coriolis force or centrifugal force, help explain phenomena in rotating or accelerating systems without altering Newton's laws of motion.

apparent force

path of moving objects

Northern Hemisphere

Southern Hemisphere

Large-scale atmospheric circulation patterns

Large-scale oceanic circulation patterns

Weather systems are large-scale atmospheric phenomena that drive the day-to-day variations in weather conditions, influenced by factors like air pressure, temperature, and humidity. Understanding these systems is crucial for predicting weather patterns and mitigating the impacts of severe weather events.

weather systems

Ocean currents are large-scale movements of water within the world's oceans, driven by factors such as wind, temperature, salinity differences, and the Earth's rotation. They play a crucial role in regulating global climate, distributing heat, and supporting marine ecosystems.

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