What role does the Coriolis effect play in weather systems?

The Coriolis effect primarily describes how the rotation of the Earth influences the movement of air and water masses on the planet. As the Earth spins, different points on its surface move at different velocities—places near the equator move faster than those near the poles. This difference in speed causes moving air (wind) and water currents to be deflected to the right in the northern hemisphere and to the left in the southern hemisphere.

This deflection is crucial in understanding the dynamics of weather systems. It leads to the rotation of large-scale systems such as cyclones and anticyclones, contributing to the typical patterns of wind and ocean currents that shape our climate and weather. Without the Coriolis effect, winds would travel in a straight line from high-pressure areas to low-pressure areas, which would significantly alter weather patterns and phenomena.

The other choices do not accurately describe the role of the Coriolis effect in weather systems. For instance, stagnant air is typically due to other meteorological conditions rather than the Coriolis effect. Similarly, while the Coriolis effect plays a role in the development of various weather phenomena, it is not a direct cause of strong tornadoes, which are primarily formed by more localized, intense thunderstorms. Temperature influences