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Chapter 6: Problem 18

Relate the jet-stream phenomenon to general upper-air circulation. How is the presence of this circulation related to airline schedules for the trip from New York to San Francisco and for the return trip to New York?

Short Answer

Expert verified
The jet stream, a result of Earth's upper-air circulation patterns—Hadley, Ferrel, and Polar cells—significantly influences flight durations. For flights from New York to San Francisco, usually moving against the jet stream, the journey takes longer. Conversely, flights from San Francisco to New York, benefiting from the jet stream, have shorter durations and save on fuel as well. Thus, airline schedules between these two cities are planned based on this phenomenon.

Step by step solution

01

Define the Jet Stream

Jet streams are high altitude, fast-flowing, narrow air currents found in the atmosphere, typically at altitudes of around 7 to 12 kilometers above Earth's surface. They have speeds up to 250 miles per hour, and flow from west to east due to the rotation of the Earth (Coriolis effect).
02

Jet Stream and Upper Air Circulation

'The jet streams exist because of the air temperature difference between the equator and the poles. The Earth's rotation sets up a momentum balance known as the meridional overturning circulation. This includes the tropical Hadley cell, the Ferrel cell at mid-latitudes, and Polar cell. These circulation cells create high-speed winds at high altitudes, which are the jet streams.
03

Impact on Air Travel

Airline schedules and flight times between New York and San Francisco are significantly affected by the speed and direction of the jet stream. Flights from New York to San Francisco, traveling east to west, typically fight against the jet stream. This means the flights can take longer and consume more fuel. On the other hand, flights from San Francisco to New York, traveling west to east, fly with the jet stream. This often results in shorter flight times and fuel savings. Hence, scheduling of these flights takes into consideration the direction of the jet stream to maximize efficiency and fuel economy.

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