Question

What cause convection currents in the atmosphere?

A. Earth's spinning makes air masses move.
B. Warm surface air rises and then cools as it rises.
C. Warm and cold parts of the ocean circulate in patterns.
D. Temperatures are different at the equator and at the poles.

Answer 1

Convection currents in the atmosphere result from warm air rising due to buoyant forces because it is less dense, and cooler air sinking, primarily due to differential heating at the equator and the poles. Option B is correct.

Step-by-step explanation:

Convection currents in the atmosphere are primarily caused by buoyant forces, where warmer, less dense air rises, and cooler, denser air sinks. This phenomenon is a result of the differential heating of the Earth's surface, particularly at the equator and the poles.

Therefore, the correct answer is B. Warm surface air rises and then cools as it rises. The overall process is affected by the Earth's rotation, leading to the Coriolis effect, which causes an easterly flow of air in the northern hemisphere. Likewise, the circulation of ocean currents and the movement of atmospheric air masses contribute to the global climate and weather patterns by redistributing heat.