The Hadley Cell Circulation And The Inter-Tropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) - Essay Sample

Introduction

The Hadley Cell Circulation refers to the conventional and overturning rising of air near the equator at the height of 3280.84 to 49212 ft above the earth moving from the subtropics to the equator. On the other hand, the Inter-Tropical Convergence Zone is a low-pressure zone that arises from converge of the winds north of the equator force moist air to rise forming a portion of the Hadley cell. Both affect weather as explored in the paragraphs below.

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Discussion

The Hadley cells are responsible for the trade winds in the Tropics, control low-latitude weather patterns, tropical rain -belts, subtropical deserts and the strong winds in the upper levels of the atmosphere. However, the explanation of the Hadley cells is based on some critical assumptions with the first being that the cell circulation is invariable. Secondly, the air moving away from the tropics retains its axial angular energy while the surface air was moving from the tropics to the equator losses its momentum as is slowed y resistance. The third and last presupposition is that the heat wind balance is responsible for the circulation. Also, the Hadley circulation entails seasonal variations in which the Hadley cell does not occur over the equator during the solstitial seasons. Instead, it happens in the summer hemisphere allowing for a stronger Hadley cell in the southern region.

The Inter Tropical Convergence Zone or the doldrums is an area of low pressure around the equator with an absence of horizontal wind movement but with a convergence of the Northeast and Southeast trade winds. Resulting low pressure from converge of the winds north of the equator force moist air to rise to form a portion of the Hadley cell. Also, the ITCZ is characterized by temperature differences that predisposing convective activity which results in thunderstorms, hails, and, rain showers. Besides convective movements, the variation in the location of the ITCZ affects rainfall in equatorial regions often causing wet and dry seasons. Nonetheless, extensive changes in the ITCZ are a predisposing factor for severe weather conditions; drought and flooding in surrounding areas. Hazards in the region extend to the disruption of transport( air and sea) as a result of tropical cyclone formations and large convective cells.

Conclusion

It is clear that both the ITCZ and the Hardley Cell circulation affect weather through impacts on the directions of winds, forms of precipitation and convective activities.