The correct option is The wind velocity is high..
Explanation
The Coriolis force is an apparent force caused by the Earth's rotation, responsible for deflecting winds to the right in the Northern Hemisphere and to the left in the Southern Hemisphere. The magnitude of the Coriolis force is determined by the wind velocity and the latitude.
The relationship is governed by the formula:
C = 2vΩ sinφ
Where C is the Coriolis force, v is wind velocity, Ω is the angular velocity of Earth, and φ is the latitude.
Statement-wise Analysis
- The wind velocity is high.: Correct. The Coriolis force is directly proportional to the wind velocity (v). As wind speed increases, the magnitude of the Coriolis force increases, resulting in greater deflection.
- The latitude is low: Incorrect. The Coriolis force is directly proportional to the sine of the latitude (sinφ). It is zero at the equator (0°) and maximum at the poles (90°). Therefore, deflection is minimal at low latitudes.
- The pressure gradient is weak.: Incorrect. The pressure gradient force is the primary driving force of wind. A weak pressure gradient results in lower wind speeds. Since the Coriolis force depends on speed, a weak gradient leads to reduced deflection.
- The frictional force is high.: Incorrect. Frictional force acts opposite to the direction of motion and reduces wind velocity. A reduction in wind velocity leads to a decrease in the Coriolis force and consequently less deflection.
Key Takeaway: The magnitude of the Coriolis force (and the resulting wind deflection) is directly proportional to the wind velocity and the latitude.