JETSTREAM Meaning and
Definition
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The term "jetstream" refers to a high-speed, meandering air current found in the upper atmosphere, typically at altitudes of 9-16 kilometers (30,000-55,000 feet). It is a narrow, concentrated band of fast-moving winds that blow predominantly in a westerly direction in Earth's mid-latitudes. The jetstream is primarily formed as a result of the Earth's rotation and the temperature contrasts between different air masses at different latitudes.
The jetstream is a significant atmospheric phenomenon with a major impact on weather patterns and aviation. It acts as a boundary between the cold polar air to the north and the warmer tropical air to the south. As it moves, it carries weather systems, such as storms, high and low-pressure systems, and fronts, across vast distances.
The speed of the jetstream can vary greatly, reaching velocities of up to 200 miles per hour (320 kilometers per hour). This high-speed, narrow air current has a profound influence on the movement of aircraft, particularly during transcontinental flights. Aircraft can use the jetstream to their advantage by flying in the same direction as the winds, which can significantly reduce travel time and fuel consumption. Conversely, flying against the jetstream can result in longer flight durations and increased fuel burn.
Understanding the jetstream is crucial for meteorologists and climatologists as it plays a substantial role in shaping global weather patterns and influencing climate trends. It affects temperature distributions, storm tracks, and precipitation patterns, making it an essential element of weather forecasting and climate modeling.
Common Misspellings for JETSTREAM
Etymology of JETSTREAM
The word "jetstream" originated from the combination of two separate terms: "jet" and "stream".
The term "jet" comes from the Old French word "jeter", meaning "to throw". In English, "jet" refers to something that is propelled forcefully or swiftly, often describing a fast-moving stream or spray of liquid or gas.
The term "stream" comes from the Old English word "stream", which means "current of water". In a broader sense, "stream" can refer to a flow or current of any fluid or substance.
Therefore, the word "jetstream" essentially combines these two terms to describe a high-speed, narrow air current or ribbon of winds in the Earth's atmosphere. The word is primarily associated with the narrow bands of strong winds that flow from west to east at high altitudes, often reaching speeds of over 100 miles per hour.
Similar spelling word for JETSTREAM
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