Final answer:
Pilots use the jet streams, high-speed winds between 7km and 16km above Earth's surface, to save time and fuel during flights. The correct answer is C) Jet Streams, which are stronger during winter due to pronounced temperature variations.
Step-by-step explanation:
Jet streams are relatively narrow bands of strong wind in the upper levels of the atmosphere. They form at the boundaries of adjacent air masses with significant differences in temperature, such as the polar regions and the warmer air to the south. Jet streams follow the boundaries between hot and cold air, and because these boundaries are most pronounced in the winter, jet streams are stronger in the winter months. Knowing the direction and speed of the jet stream can help pilots to either speed up their flight when flying in the direction of the stream, or avoid it as much as possible when it is opposed to their route, thereby reducing fuel consumption and flight time.
The difference in wind speeds at high altitudes can have significant impacts on air travel. Pilots can use the jet streams to save time and fuel by flying with the flow of these fast-moving upper atmospheric winds. It is essential for pilots to consider the direction and velocity of jet streams to ensure safe and efficient travel.