American Meteorological Society Certification (AMS) Practice

Atmospheric circulation plays a crucial role in redistributing thermal energy across the Earth. This process involves the movement of air masses, which carry heat from warmer regions near the equator toward cooler regions near the poles. As these air masses move, they interact with land and water bodies, which influence local climates and temperatures.

For instance, warm air rises near the equator, creating low-pressure areas that draw in cooler air from surrounding regions, while the movement of cold air toward the equator helps balance the overall temperature. This circulation contributes to the formation of various climate zones, influencing seasonal temperatures and weather patterns globally.

By redistributing heat energy, atmospheric circulation helps to moderate temperatures across different regions, making it a vital component of Earth's climate system. This global thermal imbalance ensures that warmer and cooler areas interact, contributing to overall climate stability.