The Coriolis force on Earth explicated

    Figure: The Coriolis force on Earth explicated

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

    Further explication:

    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.

    4. Image 2 Caption: This image 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 and/or file tracking information follows to the divider line:

    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.