How does wind behavior change with height in the Southern Hemisphere?

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

In the Southern Hemisphere, wind behavior typically exhibits a backing in direction and an increase in speed with height. This phenomenon is primarily influenced by the Coriolis effect, which causes moving air to be deflected due to the Earth's rotation. As you ascend in the atmosphere, winds generally shift from a more easterly direction closer to the surface to a more westerly direction at higher altitudes.

Additionally, as the altitude increases, the influence of surface friction diminishes, allowing winds to accelerate. This results in higher wind speeds aloft than at the surface. This behavior is significant in dynamic weather patterns, as understanding how winds change with height can help predict storm systems and atmospheric stability.

Other options suggesting a decrease in speed or a constant behavior do not accurately reflect the typical atmospheric conditions observed in the Southern Hemisphere. As such, recognizing the interplay of these factors is vital for comprehending wind dynamics in this region.

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