Final answer:
Jet streams are high-altitude winds that change speed with latitude and dictate global air movement, significantly affecting weather and climate. They are consistent and can be observed on Earth as well as other planets like Jupiter. The correct answer is option 2.
Step-by-step explanation:
The high-altitude wind system that varies in speed based on its distance from the equator and plays a significant role in directing air masses across the globe is known as the jet streams. These east-west wind patterns in the atmosphere can be incredibly consistent over many decades. An example of their force can be seen on Jupiter, where a jet stream at the equator flows eastward with a speed of about 90 meters per second. Earth's upper atmosphere has similar jet streams that can reach similar speeds, influencing weather patterns and climate regions by directing air masses and carrying energy between different parts of the planet.
Jet streams have a profound impact on global weather, affecting temperature, precipitation, and the distribution of climate regions. Their behavior is significant in understanding not only Earth's climate but also the atmospheric dynamics of other planets in our solar system, such as Jupiter and Saturn, where strong wind patterns are also observed.