The dominant surface winds from the subtropics to high latitudes are the
A)trade winds.
B)geostrophic winds.
C)polar easterlies.
D)westerlies.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The westerlies are the dominant surface winds from the subtropics toward the poles. They are named due to their westward direction of flow, which is caused by the Coriolis effect. They generally blow from west to east in the mid-latitudes, but can also exhibit a more northerly or southerly flow depending on the season and other weather patterns. The other options are not dominant surface winds in this region. The trade winds are found closer to the equator and blow from east to west, whereas the polar easterlies blow from the poles towards the mid-latitudes. Geostrophic winds refer to winds above the surface and are not dominant surface winds.

The Dominant Surface Winds from the Subtropics to High Latitudes