Final answer:
Solar radiation is the primary source of global winds and convection, as it provides the thermal energy that leads to air movement in the atmosphere.
Step-by-step explanation:
The initial source of global winds and convection in the atmosphere is solar radiation. Solar radiation provides the thermal energy necessary to heat the Earth's surface, which in turn heats the air above it. This process creates temperature differences between different regions, leading to the movement of air as the atmosphere tries to equalize global temperatures. These winds are further influenced by Earth's rotation which introduces the Coriolis effect, causing the wind to deflect and creating characteristic wind patterns around the globe.