At what latitudes are jetstreams commonly found?

Study for the Air New Zealand Tech Exam. Utilize flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Prepare effectively for your assessment!

Jet streams are high-altitude, fast-moving air currents that are predominantly found at specific latitudes, particularly near the boundaries between different air masses. One of the key areas where these jet streams are prevalent is around 60° latitude in both the Northern and Southern Hemispheres. At this latitude, there is often a significant temperature contrast between the cold polar air and the warmer air from the mid-latitudes, which helps to establish and sustain these high-speed winds.

As air masses interact at these latitudinal zones, the resulting atmospheric dynamics create the conditions necessary for jet streams to thrive. These currents can influence weather patterns significantly, guiding the movement of storms and affecting precipitation.

While jet streams can be found at various latitudes, their most pronounced strength and predictability occur around the 60° mark, making it the correct choice regarding where jet streams are commonly established.

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