What is another term for the subtropical high?

What is another term for the subtropical high?

• A. Trade Winds
• B. Horse Latitudes
• C. ITCZ
• D. Polar Front

Answer: (B)

The subtropical high is often referred to as the "Horse Latitudes." This term originates from the regions around 30 degrees north and south of the equator, where the prevailing winds are calm and the weather is typically dry. In historical contexts, sailing ships would often become becalmed in these areas and had to lighten their loads by throwing horses overboard, which is how the area got its name. The Horse Latitudes are characterized by high pressure and clear skies, contributing to the formation of deserts in regions such as the Sahara and the southwestern United States. This high-pressure system is significant in shaping global wind patterns and influences the trade winds, which are different phenomena altogether. The other options—Trade Winds, ITCZ (Intertropical Convergence Zone), and Polar Front—represent different aspects of atmospheric circulation and climates but are not synonymous with the subtropical high.

The subtropical high is often referred to as the "Horse Latitudes." This term originates from the regions around 30 degrees north and south of the equator, where the prevailing winds are calm and the weather is typically dry. In historical contexts, sailing ships would often become becalmed in these areas and had to lighten their loads by throwing horses overboard, which is how the area got its name.

The Horse Latitudes are characterized by high pressure and clear skies, contributing to the formation of deserts in regions such as the Sahara and the southwestern United States. This high-pressure system is significant in shaping global wind patterns and influences the trade winds, which are different phenomena altogether. The other options—Trade Winds, ITCZ (Intertropical Convergence Zone), and Polar Front—represent different aspects of atmospheric circulation and climates but are not synonymous with the subtropical high.