Question

Which way does wind typically blow over the tropical Pacific? How does wind flow in the tropical Pacific change during an El Niño event?

a) From east to west; it reverses to blow from west to east during El Niño.
b) From north to south; it becomes more erratic during El Niño.
c) From west to east; it becomes stronger during El Niño.
d) From south to north; it remains unchanged during El Niño.

Answer 1

Wind typically blows from east to west over the tropical Pacific. During an El Niño event, the wind can reverse direction, blowing from west to east. The Coriolis force also plays a significant role in the rotation of weather systems.

Step-by-step explanation:

Typically, wind blows from east to west over the tropical Pacific. During an El Niño event, the normal wind flow can be disrupted. An El Niño is characterized by a band of warmer ocean water temperatures that can lead to a reversal of wind direction, so that it blows from west to east.

Sea Surface Temperature (SST) anomalies are linked with changes in the weather, and El Niño is associated with high air pressure in the western Pacific and low air pressure in the eastern Pacific, which affects the wind flow. The correct answer to the question is 'a) From east to west; it reverses to blow from west to east during El Niño.' Additionally, the Coriolis force influences wind circulation and the rotation of weather systems such as hurricanes and cyclones, which differ in direction between the Northern and Southern Hemispheres.