Which of the following statements is correct with respect to the Extr...
The correct answer is It moves from west to east.
Key-Points
Extra-Tropical Cyclone - - The systems developing in the mid and high latitudes, beyond the tropics, are called the middle latitude or extratropical cyclones. Hence, statement 1 is incorrect.
- The front’s passage causes abrupt changes in the weather conditions over the area in the middle and high latitudes.
- Extratropical cyclones form along the polar front. Initially, the front is stationary.
- In the northern hemisphere, warm air blows from the south and cold air from the north of the front.
- When the pressure drops along the front, the warm air moves northwards, and the cold air moves towards the south, setting in motion an anticlockwise cyclonic circulation.
- The cyclonic circulation leads to a well-developed extratropical cyclone, with a warm front and a cold front.
Important Points
Difference between Extra-Tropical Cyclone and Tropical Cyclone - - The extratropical cyclones have a clear frontal system which is not present in the tropical cyclones.
- They cover a larger area and can originate over the land and sea. Whereas the tropical cyclones originate only over the seas, and on reaching the land, they dissipate. Hence, statement 2 is incorrect.
- The extratropical cyclone affects a much larger area as compared to the tropical cyclone.
- The wind velocity in a tropical cyclone is much higher, and it is more destructive. Hence, statement 3 is incorrect.
- The extratropical cyclones move from west to east, but tropical cyclones move from east to west. Hence, statement 4 is correct.
Which of the following statements is correct with respect to the Extr...
Explanation:
ExtraTropical Cyclones, also known as mid-latitude cyclones or frontal cyclones, are low-pressure systems that occur in the middle and high latitudes, away from the equator. These cyclones are distinct from tropical cyclones, which develop in the tropics and have different characteristics.
Key Points:
- Origin: ExtraTropical Cyclones do not develop in the tropical region. They typically form along the polar front, which is the boundary between warm air masses and cold air masses. These cyclones are associated with the meeting of warm and cold air masses, which leads to the formation of fronts and the development of the cyclone.
- Location: While ExtraTropical Cyclones can develop over the seas, they can also form over land. They are not limited to specific regions but can occur in various parts of the world, including North America, Europe, and Asia.
- Wind Velocity: The wind velocity in ExtraTropical Cyclones is generally higher compared to tropical cyclones. This is because these cyclones are driven by the temperature contrast between warm and cold air masses. The strong temperature gradient leads to the formation of strong pressure gradients and faster winds.
- Movement: ExtraTropical Cyclones typically move from west to east. This is due to the prevailing westerly winds in the middle latitudes, known as the westerlies. These winds play a crucial role in steering the cyclones and determining their movement direction.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, the correct statement with respect to ExtraTropical Cyclones is option 'D' - they move from west to east. These cyclones develop in the middle and high latitudes, are not limited to the seas, have higher wind velocities compared to tropical cyclones, and are driven by the temperature contrast between warm and cold air masses.