Geography • Physical GeographyMedium
What is the Coriolis force caused by?
A. Gravitational pull of the Moon on the Earth's atmosphere
B. The rotation of the Earth on its axis✓ Correct Answer
C. Thermal expansion of gases near the equator
D. Frictional drag between ocean currents and continental shelves
💡 Solution & Explanation
The Coriolis force is an apparent inertial force generated solely by the rotation of the Earth on its axis, causing moving fluids and objects to deflect rightward in the Northern Hemisphere and leftward in the Southern Hemisphere. Thermal expansion or lunar gravity do not account for this directional deflection of winds and ocean currents.
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