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Q: Which winds are also known by the name of ‘Roaring Forties’?
  • A. Polar easterlies
  • B. Westerly winds
  • C. Polar winds
  • D. Trade winds
Correct Answer: Option B - Westerly Winds : The easterlies from either side of the equator converge in the Inter Tropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ). Such circulations from the surface upwards and vice-versa are called cells. In the middle latitudes, the circulation is that of sinking cold air that comes from the poles and the rising warm air that blows from the subtropical high. At the surface, these winds are called westerlies. Sailors used to call westerlies “roaring forties” because they created a very noisy atmosphere and were unsuitable for them. Such winds are noticed mostly in Southern Hemisphere. Thus, westerly winds are also known as ‘Roaring Forties’.
B. Westerly Winds : The easterlies from either side of the equator converge in the Inter Tropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ). Such circulations from the surface upwards and vice-versa are called cells. In the middle latitudes, the circulation is that of sinking cold air that comes from the poles and the rising warm air that blows from the subtropical high. At the surface, these winds are called westerlies. Sailors used to call westerlies “roaring forties” because they created a very noisy atmosphere and were unsuitable for them. Such winds are noticed mostly in Southern Hemisphere. Thus, westerly winds are also known as ‘Roaring Forties’.

Explanations:

Westerly Winds : The easterlies from either side of the equator converge in the Inter Tropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ). Such circulations from the surface upwards and vice-versa are called cells. In the middle latitudes, the circulation is that of sinking cold air that comes from the poles and the rising warm air that blows from the subtropical high. At the surface, these winds are called westerlies. Sailors used to call westerlies “roaring forties” because they created a very noisy atmosphere and were unsuitable for them. Such winds are noticed mostly in Southern Hemisphere. Thus, westerly winds are also known as ‘Roaring Forties’.