Why are there multiple atmospheric cells as air moves from the equator to the poles instead of one single cell?
A) There are variations in the solar radiation.
B) There are intermediate precipitation events which break up the air into circulation cells.
C) There are variations in the speed of wind.
D) The Coriolis effect breaks the air mass into atmospheric cells.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

As air rises from the equator, it loses moisture. The drier air then becomes more dense in the upper atmosphere and falls on its way towards the poles. The air then warms again, continuing the cycle. Information can be found in the section The Atmosphere Moves in Response to Uneven Solar Heating and Earth's Rotation.

Why Are There Multiple Atmospheric Cells as Air Moves from the Equator