Which of the following regions is known for 'frontal cyclones'? a) Tr...
- In tropical regions, tropical cyclones are more common. So, (a) is less appropriate than (d).
- Mid-latitude or frontal cyclones are large travelling atmospheric cyclonic storms up to 2000 km in diameter with centres of low atmospheric pressure.
- Mid-latitude cyclones are the result of the dynamic interaction of warm tropical and cold polar air masses at the polar front.
- This interaction causes the warm air to be cyclonically lifted vertically into the atmosphere where it combines with colder upper atmosphere air. This process also helps to transport excess energy from the lower latitudes to the higher latitudes.
View all questions of this test
Which of the following regions is known for 'frontal cyclones'? a) Tr...
**Mid-latitude regions** are known for 'frontal cyclones'.
**Explanation:**
Frontal cyclones, also known as extratropical cyclones or mid-latitude cyclones, are low-pressure systems that form along the boundaries between warm and cold air masses in the mid-latitudes. These cyclones are responsible for much of the weather experienced in the mid-latitude regions.
**Characteristics of frontal cyclones:**
1. Formation: Frontal cyclones typically form along the polar front, which is the boundary between cold polar air and warm tropical air. This front separates the polar air mass from the tropical air mass.
2. Air masses: The polar front marks the boundary between cold, dense air and warm, less dense air. As the two air masses collide, they create a zone of instability, leading to the development of a low-pressure system.
3. Weather patterns: Frontal cyclones are associated with a variety of weather patterns, including cloudiness, precipitation (rain or snow), strong winds, and changes in temperature. The warm and cold fronts associated with these cyclones interact and create distinct weather conditions.
4. Cyclonic circulation: Frontal cyclones have a counterclockwise circulation in the Northern Hemisphere and a clockwise circulation in the Southern Hemisphere. This circulation brings in air from different regions, leading to changes in weather conditions.
5. Frontal systems: Frontal cyclones are characterized by the presence of warm and cold fronts. The warm front is the leading edge of the warm air mass, while the cold front is the leading edge of the cold air mass. These fronts often bring about changes in temperature, humidity, and wind direction.
6. Movement: Frontal cyclones generally move from west to east due to the prevailing westerlies in the mid-latitudes. Their movement can influence weather patterns over large areas.
**Conclusion:**
In conclusion, frontal cyclones are primarily found in the mid-latitude regions. These cyclones form along the polar front and are responsible for significant weather changes, including precipitation, strong winds, and temperature fluctuations. Understanding the behavior and movement of frontal cyclones is essential for studying and predicting weather patterns in the mid-latitudes.