What is the primary factor responsible for generating the deflection of global winds and ocean currents known as the Coriolis effect?

💡 Solution & Explanation

The Coriolis effect arises entirely from the rotation of the Earth on its axis, causing moving fluids and winds to veer right in the Northern Hemisphere and left in the Southern Hemisphere. Factors like solar radiation differences drive thermal circulation, but do not directly cause this directional deflection. This mechanical force is zero at the equator and intensifies toward the poles.