With reference to "Coriolis force", which of the following statements is/are correct ?
It increases with increase in wind velocity.
It is maximum at the poles and is absent at the equator.
Select the answer using the code given below :
EXPLANATION
Correct Option
Both statements 1 and 2 are correct.
Statement 1: The Coriolis force is directly proportional to the velocity of the moving object, such as wind. Consequently, an increase in wind velocity leads to a greater magnitude of the Coriolis force and a more pronounced deflection.
Statement 2: The Coriolis force varies with latitude. It is zero at the equator (0° latitude) because the vertical component of Earth's rotation is absent there, meaning there is no rotational effect on horizontal motion. It progressively increases with increasing latitude, reaching its maximum value at the poles (90° latitude), where the effect of Earth's rotation on horizontal motion is greatest. This variation is mathematically represented by its dependence on the sine of the latitude.
Incorrect Options
Option (a) 1 only: This is incorrect because statement 2 is also a correct description of the Coriolis force.
Option (b) 2 only: This is incorrect because statement 1 is also a correct description of the Coriolis force.
Option (d) Neither 1 nor 2: This is incorrect as both statements accurately describe characteristics of the Coriolis force.
SOURCECertificate Physical and Human Geography by G.C. Leong, Chapter 10: Winds and Planetary Circulation