Q. In what ways are cyclones and anticyclones similar, and how do they differ? (10 M, 150 Words)

Answer:

How to Approach the Question?

  • Introduction
    • Define cyclones and anticyclones.
  • Body
    • Discuss the ways in which cyclones and anticyclones are similar.
    • Shed light upon the differences between cyclones and anticyclones.
  • Conclusion
    • Give appropriate conclusion in this regard.

 

Introduction

Cyclones and Anticyclones are the two primary atmospheric systems where a ‘cyclone’, exemplified by Hurricane Katrina, involves the rapid inward circulation of air masses around a low-pressure center. Conversely, an ‘anticyclone,’ like the Azores High, features the swift outward circulation of air masses around a high-pressure center, exhibiting rotational patterns opposite to cyclones.

Body

Ways in which Cyclones and Anticyclones are Similar:

  • Atmospheric Systems: Both cyclones and anticyclones are large-scale atmospheric systems that influence weather patterns in the regions where they are present. 
  • Formation: Both systems form due to various meteorological factors, including temperature differences, pressure gradient, humidity levels, and the Earth’s rotation. For example, cyclones can develop when warm, moist air rises and creates a pressure gradient, while anticyclones may form when cool, dry air descends, creating another pressure gradient.
  • Air Circulation: They both involve the movement and circulation of air masses. For instance, cyclones are characterized by inward and upward air circulation, while anticyclones exhibit downward and outward air circulation.
  • Rotation: Both cyclones and anticyclones exhibit rotation, with air moving around a central point. To illustrate, cyclones rotate around low-pressure centers, while anticyclones revolve around high-pressure centers.
  • Coriolis Force: The rotation direction of both systems is influenced by the Coriolis effect. For example, the Coriolis force causes cyclones and anticyclones in the Northern Hemisphere to rotate counterclockwise and clockwise, respectively, while in the Southern Hemisphere, their rotation directions are reversed.
  • Influence on Weather: They can both have significant impacts on local weather and climate. For example, Cyclone Amphan caused heavy rainfall in regions including East Midnapore, North and South 24 Parganas, Howrah, Hooghly, and West Midnapore, whereas a polar anticyclone usually creates cool and dry weather in Canada, the USA, and northern Eurasia.

Differences between Cyclones and Anticyclones:

Characteristic Cyclone Anticyclone
Atmospheric Pressure Low-pressure system. Pressure increases on moving away from the centre.  High-pressure system. Pressure decreases on moving away from the centre. 
Air Circulation Inward and upward Downward and outward
Rotation Direction Counterclockwise in Northern Hemisphere) and Clockwise in Southern Hemisphere Clockwise in Northern Hemisphere and Counterclockwise in Southern Hemisphere
Weather Conditions Stormy, cloudy, rainy, strong winds; exemplified by hurricanes.  Calm, clear skies, stable weather; exemplified by the Azores High.
Damage Can cause great damage to lives and property. For example, cyclone Tauktae resulted in at least 174 fatalities, with over 80 individuals still missing, and caused estimated losses of US$1.57 billion. Does not cause loss to lives and property. Instead, it leads to pleasant weather. For example, the Bermuda-Azores High brings fair weather.
Global Distribution Found in various regions worldwide, including tropical and temperate zones, exemplified by their occurrences in the Atlantic Ocean and Pacific Ocean. Also found in different regions, but more prevalent in subtropical and high-latitude areas.

For example, the Siberian High in Eurasia.

 

Conclusion

The understanding of both the similarities and distinctions between these two atmospheric systems is crucial for predicting and responding to weather events and preparing for the diverse impacts these atmospheric phenomena have on our daily lives.

 

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Quick Revise Now !
UDAAN PRELIMS WALLAH
Comprehensive coverage with a concise format
Integration of PYQ within the booklet
Designed as per recent trends of Prelims questions
हिंदी में भी उपलब्ध

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