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Term: Prevailing Wind

Description:

The term "prevailing wind" refers to the direction from which the wind most commonly blows in a particular region. It is the dominant wind direction that occurs over a given period of time, usually coming from the same general direction.

Senses and Usages:

Sense 1: Meteorological

In meteorology, prevailing winds are essential to understanding weather patterns and climate. These winds influence the distribution of heat, moisture, and air masses, playing a crucial role in determining local weather conditions.

Example Sentence 1: The prevailing westerly winds in coastal regions bring cool ocean air, resulting in mild temperatures throughout the year.

Example Sentence 2: The prevailing wind in this area is from the northeast, which often carries cold air in winter and affects local snowfall.

Sense 2: Navigational

For sailors, pilots, and navigators, knowledge of prevailing winds is vital for charting courses and travel planning. Prevailing winds can assist or impede the movement of ships, aircraft, and other vehicles.

Example Sentence 1: The prevailing trade winds aided ancient sailors in their journeys across the ocean.

Example Sentence 2: The airports' flight schedules consider the prevailing wind direction to optimize takeoffs and landings.

Sense 3: Environmental

In environmental studies, prevailing wind patterns are crucial for understanding the dispersion of pollutants, airborne particles, and air quality assessments.

Example Sentence 1: The pollution from the factories is often carried away by the prevailing winds, affecting the air quality in neighboring towns.

Example Sentence 2: The study found that the prevailing wind carries pollen from nearby meadows, contributing to allergies in the region.

Related Products:

To learn more about meteorology and prevailing winds, consider the following books:

• Introduction to Meteorology
• Weather Patterns and Climate Change