Author Question: Using an example explain the Coriolis force. Examine and explain the effect of the Coriolis force on ... (Read 182 times)

lbcchick · **on:** Jul 14, 2018

Using an example explain the Coriolis force. Examine and explain the effect of the Coriolis force on wind speed and direction.

What will be an ideal response?

Question 2

Discuss the process of glacial erosion.

What will be an ideal response?

tuwy · **Reply #1 on:** Jul 14, 2018

Answer to Question 1

Multiple examples are available, but the textbook uses an airplane traveling in a straight line from north to south. Because of the Earth's rotation, it appears as if the plane curves off course. In order to maintain a straight line, the airplane must constantly make corrections. The strength of the deflection varies with the speed of the Earth's rotation. Deflection is zero along the equator and reaches a maximum at the poles. The deflection is to the right in the Northern Hemisphere, to the left in the Southern Hemisphere.

Answer to Question 2

A flowing glacier mechanically picks up rock material and carries it downslope in a process called glacial plucking. Some debris is also carried englacially (internally within the glacier). When the glacier retreats, it may leave behind rock material that it carried from elsewhere. These deposits are called glacial erratics. The rock pieces frozen to the basal layers of the glacier enable the ice mass to scour the landscape as it passes over it, in a process called abrasion. This produces a smooth surface that shines with so-called glacial polish as the glacier retreats.