Question

Which description below best describes high- and low-pressure systems?

a) High-pressure systems are characterized by ascending air, leading to stable weather conditions, while low-pressure systems involve descending air, resulting in unsettled weather.

b) High-pressure systems are associated with cool temperatures and clear skies, whereas low-pressure systems bring warm temperatures and prolonged rainfall.

c) High-pressure systems are marked by the convergence of air masses, causing storms and precipitation, while low-pressure systems are linked to calm weather conditions and clear skies.

d) High-pressure systems result in clockwise air circulation in the Northern Hemisphere, leading to dry and calm weather, while low-pressure systems create counterclockwise air circulation, causing turbulent weather patterns.

Answer 1

High-pressure systems are associated with descending air, leading to clear and calm weather, and they circulate clockwise in the Northern Hemisphere. Low-pressure systems involve ascending air that leads to cloud formation and potentially stormy weather, circulating counterclockwise in the Northern Hemisphere.

Step-by-step explanation:

The description that best describes high- and low-pressure systems is: High-pressure systems result in clockwise air circulation in the Northern Hemisphere, leading to dry and calm weather, while low-pressure systems create counterclockwise air circulation, causing turbulent weather patterns. In low-pressure systems, air rises, cools, and can lead to cloud formation and precipitation. These systems are often associated with stormier weather. In contrast, in high-pressure systems, air is descending, leading to clearer skies and more stable weather conditions.

The Coriolis effect contributes to the direction of wind circulation around these pressure systems, with high-pressure systems circulating clockwise and low-pressure systems circulating counterclockwise in the Northern Hemisphere. This circulation pattern is reversed in the Southern Hemisphere. Additionally, strong differences in pressure can lead to strong winds and even severe weather events such as tornadoes when conditions are right.