Cyclones and tornadoes are both powerful atmospheric phenomena that can cause significant damage and destruction. While they share some similarities, such as rotating winds, there are several key differences between the two.

Cyclones:
- Larger in Size: Cyclones are generally larger in size compared to tornadoes. They can span hundreds of kilometers and typically have a diameter of several hundred kilometers.
- Form over Water: Cyclones form over warm ocean waters, where the conditions are conducive for their development. The warm water provides the necessary heat and moisture for the cyclone to form and strengthen.
- Low Air Pressure: Cyclones are characterized by low air pressure at their center. The air pressure decreases as you move closer to the center of the cyclone. This low-pressure system causes air to rush inwards towards the center, creating strong winds and storms.
- Rotating Counter-Clockwise: In the Northern Hemisphere, cyclones rotate counterclockwise, while in the Southern Hemisphere, they rotate clockwise. This rotation is a result of the Coriolis effect, which is caused by the Earth's rotation.
- Long Duration: Cyclones can last for several days or even weeks, moving across large distances. They are often accompanied by heavy rainfall, storm surges, and strong winds, causing widespread damage.

Tornadoes:
- Smaller in Size: Tornadoes are much smaller in size compared to cyclones. They typically have a diameter of a few hundred meters and a height of a few kilometers.
- Form over Land: Tornadoes form over land, usually in association with severe thunderstorms. The interaction between warm, moist air near the surface and cool, dry air aloft creates the conditions necessary for tornado formation.
- High Air Pressure: Tornadoes are characterized by high air pressure at their center. The air pressure decreases as you move away from the center of the tornado. This high-pressure system causes air to rush outwards from the center, creating a powerful vortex.
- Rotating Clockwise or Counterclockwise: Tornadoes can rotate in either direction, clockwise or counterclockwise, depending on the specific atmospheric conditions in which they form.
- Short Duration: Tornadoes are generally short-lived, lasting for only a few minutes to a few hours. However, during their brief existence, they can cause significant damage due to their intense winds.

In summary, cyclones and tornadoes differ in terms of their size, formation location, air pressure characteristics, rotation direction, and duration. Understanding these differences is essential for accurately identifying and preparing for these severe weather events.