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In science, we studied the Coriolis Effect. Do other planets have a similar global wind system(s) as we do?
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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