The pattern of planetary winds largely depends upon which of the following factors? 1. Latitudinal variation of atmospheric heating 2. The distribution of continents and oceans 3. The rotation of earth Which of the above is/are correct?

The pattern of planetary winds is determined by several interacting factors. Firstly, the latitudinal variation of atmospheric heating creates a temperature gradient between the equator and the poles, driving the primary circulation cells like the Hadley, Ferrel, and Polar cells [2]. Secondly, the rotation of the Earth generates the Coriolis force, which deflects these winds—to the right in the Northern Hemisphere and to the left in the Southern Hemisphere—transforming simple north-south movements into the trade winds and westerlies [2]. Finally, the distribution of continents and oceans significantly influences these patterns by creating pressure differences between land and water due to differential heating rates. While the three-cell model provides an idealized view, the actual global wind pattern is made more complex by the uneven placement of landmasses and oceans [2].

Sources

1. [2] Certificate Physical and Human Geography , GC Leong (Oxford University press 3rd ed.) > Chapter 14: Climate > Pressure and Planetary Winds > p. 139