Rossby waves are giant meanders in the high-altitude jet streams. These waves are caused by the variation of the Coriolis effect with latitude and the influence of large mountain ranges or ocean-land temperature differences. They play a critical role in weather because they transport warm air toward the poles and cold air toward the equator. ANSWER: (B) Large-scale meanders in high-altitude winds
What is the ‘Rossby Wave’ in the atmosphere? (A) A type of sound wave (B) Large-scale meanders in high-altitude winds (C) A localized sea breeze (D) Small ripples in the ionosphere
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Rossby waves (or planetary waves) are fundamental to large-scale weather patterns. When the jet stream develops these deep “loops,” it allows cold arctic air to plunge south (troughs) and warm tropical air to surge north (ridges). If these waves become “blocked” or move very slowly, it can lead to persistent weather events like long-term heatwaves or extended periods of heavy snow. The interaction of these waves with the Earth’s rotating surface is what ultimately dictates the position of high and low-pressure systems across the temperate zones of both hemispheres.
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