CORIOLIS EFFECT

PRERNA FOR IAS

CORIOLIS EFFECT

(GEOGRAPHY)

Coriolis Effect

The Coriolis Effect is the apparent deflection of moving objects, such as winds, ocean currents, and aircraft, caused by the Earth's rotation. Since the Earth rotates faster at the Equator than at the poles, moving air and water do not travel in straight lines. In the Northern Hemisphere, objects are deflected to the right, while in the Southern Hemisphere they are deflected to the left. The Coriolis Effect is strongest near the poles and weakest at the Equator. It plays a crucial role in shaping global wind systems, ocean currents, cyclones, and weather patterns. This phenomenon greatly influences Earth's climate and atmospheric circulation.

North Pole

The North Pole is the northernmost point on Earth, located at 90° North latitude. It lies in the Arctic Ocean and experiences extremely cold temperatures throughout the year. At the poles, the Earth's rotational speed is nearly zero, which means the Coriolis Effect reaches its maximum influence. Air masses and ocean currents moving toward or away from the pole are strongly deflected. The North Pole experiences six months of daylight and six months of darkness due to Earth's ti