The Coriolis force
A)drives air from areas of higher to lower barometric pressure.
B)decreases with height above the surface.
C)causes the apparent deflection of winds from a straight path.
D)is the only force acting on flows of air in the upper troposphere.
E)creates the Hadley Cells.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The Coriolis force causes the apparent deflection of winds from a straight path, which is why it is also known as the deflective force. It results from the Earth's rotation and affects the paths of moving objects on and above the surface, including air and water currents.

Answer: B
 The Coriolis force decreases with height above the surface, as it is proportional to the velocity and the sine of the latitude angle. Therefore, the effect is stronger closer to the surface, where the wind speed is higher, and weaker at higher elevations.

Note: Answers A, D, and E are incorrect as they do not provide accurate descriptions of the Coriolis force. The Coriolis force does not drive air from areas of higher to lower barometric pressure, nor is it the only force acting on air flows in the upper troposphere. Additionally, while the Coriolis force is an important factor in the formation of Hadley Cells, it alone does not create them.

The Coriolis Force