Question

pretest unit 2
the diagram shows the direction trade winds blow below and above the equator. what causes the trade winds to move at an angle rather than straight toward the equator?
westerlies
polar easterlies
trade winds
trade winds
polar easterlies
westerlies
a. doldrums get in their way.
b. the coriolis effect bends them.
c. ferrel cells push them west.
d. hadley cells stop them.

Explanation:

The Coriolis effect is caused by the Earth's rotation and deflects moving objects (like air - in this case, trade winds) to one side as they travel along the Earth's surface. This deflection makes the trade winds move at an angle rather than straight toward the equator. Doldrums are low - pressure areas near the equator, Ferrel cells and Hadley cells are part of the general circulation patterns but do not directly cause the angular movement of trade winds due to deflection.

Answer:

B. The Coriolis effect bends them.