Which direction does an anti-cyclonic system rotate?

Which direction does an anti-cyclonic system rotate?

• A. Counter-clockwise
• B. Clockwise
• C. Randomly
• D. None of the above

Answer: (B)

An anti-cyclonic system, commonly referred to as a high-pressure system, rotates in a clockwise direction in the Northern Hemisphere due to the Coriolis effect. This effect arises from the rotation of the Earth and influences how air moves in different atmospheric systems. In an anti-cyclone, descending air leads to clear skies and generally stable weather conditions, as the air moves outward and sinks, creating higher pressure at the surface. In the Southern Hemisphere, however, the direction of rotation is counter-clockwise due to the same Coriolis effect but reversed. Understanding this distinction is crucial for interpreting weather patterns, forecasts, and the behavior of different pressure systems. The clockwise rotation characteristic of anti-cyclonic systems is a fundamental aspect of meteorology.

An anti-cyclonic system, commonly referred to as a high-pressure system, rotates in a clockwise direction in the Northern Hemisphere due to the Coriolis effect. This effect arises from the rotation of the Earth and influences how air moves in different atmospheric systems. In an anti-cyclone, descending air leads to clear skies and generally stable weather conditions, as the air moves outward and sinks, creating higher pressure at the surface.

In the Southern Hemisphere, however, the direction of rotation is counter-clockwise due to the same Coriolis effect but reversed. Understanding this distinction is crucial for interpreting weather patterns, forecasts, and the behavior of different pressure systems. The clockwise rotation characteristic of anti-cyclonic systems is a fundamental aspect of meteorology.