What is the difference between zonal and meridional wind flow and how do we apply this to a question?

The main difference between the two is that zonal wind flows along latitude lines, from west to east and vice versa, while meridional wind flows along longitude lines, north to south and vice versa. These can really be applied to any atmospheric movement which follows any of the two pathways as a form of describing the flow accurately. Nevertheless, it can very easily be applied to two relevant global atmospheric circulation systems that are covered in the GCSE and certainly A level Geography syllabus. Zonal can be linked to questions on ENSO (reversal in the direction of the meridional flow) and the Walker cell circulation Pattern more widely, transporting energy across the Pacific along the Equator. Meridional flow can be linked to the model of the Hadley Cells, transporting energy poleward from the equator which links into questions about tropical and extratropical storms.

EG
Answered by Elena G. Geography tutor

10040 Views

See similar Geography GCSE tutors

Related Geography GCSE answers

All answers ▸

Assess, using examples, the success of local and global strategies in reducing future global warming.


What are the two main processes of glacial erosion and how do they work?


Explain how fold mountains are formed.


Describe the formation of a gorge.


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences