Question.
Formation of temperate cyclone depends on the conditions of the axis of dilation. Elucidate.
शीतोष्ण चक्रवात का निर्माण फैलाव अक्ष की स्थिति पर निर्भर करता है। स्पष्ट कीजिए।
( UPSC Geography Optional Paper 1 2024, 10 Marks)
Answer.
About Temperate Cyclone:
Temperate cyclones are also known as mid-latitude or extratropical cyclones as they develop in mid-latitude ( 30 to 60 degrees north/south) and high-latitude ( 60 to 90 degrees north/south) in both hemispheres.
Temperate cyclones form due to the interaction between different air masses, typically at the polar front.
A polar front is a boundary region where the warm-humid air masses from the tropics meet the dry-cold air masses from the poles.
Temperature differences between the air masses are the main source of cyclone energy.
About the axis of dilation:
The axis of dilation refers to the zone of greatest temperature contrast (usually the frontal boundary between warm and cold air) where the cyclone forms and intensifies.
The axis of dilation is basically the frontal boundary of warm airmass and cold airmass.
Formation of temperate cyclone depends on the conditions of the axis of dilation ( fronts):
Atmospheric instability:
Atmospheric instability occurs when there is a large temperature contrast between two air masses. The axis of dilation is indirectly related to atmospheric instability, which is a key driver for the development of temperate cyclones.
Cyclonic rotation:
The axis of dilation is associated with convergence of air at the surface and divergence of air at higher levels.
The convergence of air at the surface causes rising air near the surface, leading to a low-pressure area. As warm air rises along the axis of dilation and cold air sinks, the Coriolis effect causes the rotating motion of the system, leading to the formation of a fully developed mid-latitude cyclone.
Formation of Cumulus Cloud:
The cold front approaches the warm air from behind and pushes the warm air up. As a result, cumulus clouds develop along the cold front.
Last stage of the temperate cyclone:
The cold front moves faster than the warm front ultimately overtaking the warm front. The warm air is completely lifted up and the front is occluded and the cyclone dissipates.
From the above facts, we can say the formation of a temperate cyclone depends on the conditions of the axis of dilation.
ConversionConversion EmoticonEmoticon