Question

Instructions for Exploration 5.3 Local Wind Systems Short Answer B:

Double-click the Beach placemark to fly into a Street Scene view in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.
Exploration 5.3 Local Wind Systems Short Answer B
What type of local wind pattern would be likely in this location at this time? What evidence leads you to that conclusion?

Answer 1

The likely local wind pattern in Fort Lauderdale, Florida is a sea breeze. Sea breezes occur along coastlines, with cool air moving toward the shore from the ocean during the day and reversing direction at night. The temperature difference between land and water, and the specific heat capacities of water and sand, contribute to the formation of sea breezes.

Step-by-step explanation:

The likely local wind pattern in Fort Lauderdale, Florida is a sea breeze. During the day, sea breezes occur along coastlines where cool air moves toward the shore from the ocean. This happens when the air temperature on land is greater than the air temperature above the water. At night, the breezes reverse direction and move from the land toward the ocean. One of the important factors in the formation of sea breezes is the difference in specific heat capacities between water and sand (or concrete). Water has a higher specific heat capacity, which means it takes longer to heat up and cool down compared to land surfaces. This causes the air above the water to be cooler during the day, creating a pressure gradient that drives the sea breeze.