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Question
How does the Coriolis Force vary latitudinally?
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Solution
The Coriolis force increases with latitude. It is zero at the equator and becomes stronger toward the poles, reaching its maximum at 90° North and South. This is because the Coriolis effect depends on the rotation of the Earth and the Earth's spherical shape. Due to this force, moving air is deflected to the right in the Northern Hemisphere and to the left in the Southern Hemisphere. For example, the trade winds that would otherwise blow directly north or south are deflected, forming northeast trade winds in the Northern Hemisphere and southeast trade winds in the Southern Hemisphere.
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