In the northern hemisphere, where does the Intertropical Convergence Zone shift in summer and winter?

In the northern hemisphere, where does the Intertropical Convergence Zone shift in summer and winter?

• A. North, south
• B. South, north
• C. North, west
• D. South, south

Answer: (A)

The Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) is a region near the equator where the trade winds from both hemispheres come together, causing rising air and significant precipitation. In the northern hemisphere during summer, the ITCZ shifts northward as the land heats up more than the ocean, causing the air to rise and pushing the convergence zone towards higher latitudes. Conversely, in winter, as the land cools, the ITCZ moves southward. This seasonal migration of the ITCZ is primarily influenced by the temperature differences between the land and ocean. In summer, the greater heating of the northern landmass results in a northward shift. In winter, the cooler temperatures in the northern hemisphere result in the ITCZ moving back toward the equator. Thus, the statement about the ITCZ shifting north in summer and south in winter is accurate.

The Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) is a region near the equator where the trade winds from both hemispheres come together, causing rising air and significant precipitation. In the northern hemisphere during summer, the ITCZ shifts northward as the land heats up more than the ocean, causing the air to rise and pushing the convergence zone towards higher latitudes. Conversely, in winter, as the land cools, the ITCZ moves southward.

This seasonal migration of the ITCZ is primarily influenced by the temperature differences between the land and ocean. In summer, the greater heating of the northern landmass results in a northward shift. In winter, the cooler temperatures in the northern hemisphere result in the ITCZ moving back toward the equator. Thus, the statement about the ITCZ shifting north in summer and south in winter is accurate.