Coriolis force on Earth

    Image 1 Caption: How the Coriolis force (AKA Coriolis effect) due to the Earth's rotation affects weather is illustrated in Image 1.

    Features:

    1. The Coriolis force is a rotating frame inertial force that arises from rotation relative to the observable universe (see Mechanics file: frame_rotating.html).

    2. The Coriolis force plus convection are the main cause of band-like atmospheric circulation cells on Earth and other planets: e.g., Jupiter ♃, king of the planets.

      Deep atmosphere effects may also play a role in the band structure of gas giant planets.

    3. The Coriolis force is also the cause of cyclones and anticyclones on Earth and other planets. For example, see the following video:

        Juno Perijove 06 | 3:00: Great imagery as the Juno spacecraft goes perijove. Shows all kinds of great vortex motion and gas giant band structure due, in part, to the Coriolis force. A bit long for classroom, but OK to end a break.

    4. Image 2 Caption: This illustrates how cyclones and anticyclones form in the Northern Hemisphere of Earth.

      Coriolis force on Earth forming cyclones and anticyclones

    5. The Coriolis force causes the clockwise/counterclockwise out/in-spiral of winds from a high-pressure area/low-pressure area in the Northern Hemisphere. The Southern Hemisphere is the mirror image case with the equator being the "mirror".

    Credit/Permission: © David Jeffery, 2003 / Own work.
    1. Image link: Itself.
    2. Image link: Itself.
    Local file: local link: coriolis_force.html.
    File: Mechanics file: coriolis_force.html.