What does the Coriolis effect describe?

The Coriolis effect refers to the apparent deflection of moving objects, such as winds and ocean currents, due to the rotation of the Earth. In the Northern Hemisphere, this effect causes winds and ocean currents to be deflected to the right of their path of motion. This rightward deflection is a result of the Earth rotating counterclockwise when viewed from above the North Pole.

Conversely, in the Southern Hemisphere, the Coriolis effect causes winds and currents to deflect to the left. This understanding is crucial for meteorology and oceanography, as it influences weather systems and oceanic circulation patterns.

The focus on the deflection direction—in this case, to the right in the Northern Hemisphere—captures the essential nature of the Coriolis effect and is consistent with observed patterns in atmospheric and ocean dynamics.