Consider the following statements : 1. Hadley cells are key to under

Consider the following statements :

1. Hadley cells are key to understanding the wind patterns of Earth.
2. Hadley cells are formed because the Equator is heated more strongly by the Sun than other places, creating thermal circulations.

With regard to the statements given above, which of the following is correct ?

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Both the statements are correct and statement 2 is the correct explanation of statement 1.

Both the statements are correct, but statement 2 is <i>not</i> the correct explanation of statement 1.

Statement 1 is correct, but statement 2 is false.

Statement 1 is false, but statement 2 is correct.

Answer is Right!

Answer is Wrong!

This question was previously asked in

UPSC CDS-2 – 2024

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Statement 1 is correct: Hadley cells are fundamental atmospheric circulation patterns in the tropics and are essential for understanding the global distribution of pressure belts and wind patterns like the trade winds and the intertropical convergence zone (ITCZ). Statement 2 is correct: Hadley cells are indeed formed due to the differential heating of the Earth’s surface. The equatorial region receives the most direct solar radiation, causing air to heat up, become less dense, and rise (convection). This rising warm air then flows poleward at high altitudes, cools, sinks around 30 degrees latitude, and returns towards the equator as surface winds (trade winds), completing the circulation loop. This thermal driving force directly explains the formation and function of Hadley cells, which, in turn, dictates tropical wind patterns. Thus, statement 2 is the correct explanation for statement 1.

Hadley cells are part of the general atmospheric circulation model, driven by latitudinal variations in solar radiation.

Beyond the Hadley cells (0-30 degrees), there are also Ferrel cells (30-60 degrees) and Polar cells (60-90 degrees), which contribute to the global pattern of atmospheric circulation and winds. However, the Hadley cells are the most thermally direct and dominant circulation feature in the tropics.

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