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In science, we studied the Coriolis Effect. Do
other planets have a similar global wind system(s)
as we do?
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Question Date: 2002-12-03 | | Answer 1:
I would guess that any planet that both has some
type of gaseous atmosphere and also rotates would
likely exhibit the Coriolis Effect. On Mars, the
Coriolis Effect is weaker due to the thinner
atmosphere and also because of its smaller radius
and slower rotation. Jupiter, on the other
hand, experiences a stronger effect as it has a
much larger diameter than Earth coupled with a
shorter period of rotation (i.e. it rotates faster).
| | Answer 2:
Yes! These are most obvious on Jupiter and
Saturn,
the two largest planets in our solar system.
If you look at them in a telescope, you can see
stripes on them. The stripes are due to clouds
that travel along the wind patterns. Also, on
Jupiter, you can see a red dot, known as the Great
Red Spot. This is a very powerful hurricane-like
storm (very windy!) that is 3 times as large as
the earth and has lasted for centuries. | | Answer 3:
Yes. On Mars, for example, scientists have
observed large, swirling windstorms near the
poles. The Coriolis Effect on Mars is less than
that on Earth because Mars has a smaller radius
than Earth and also because Mars rotates more
slowly than Earth. Storms have also been observed
on Jupiter,and Jupiter's banded appearance is a
result of a strong Coriolis Effect. The
Coriolis Effect on Jupiter is so strong because
Jupiter is large and rotates rapidly.
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