Global Wind Patterns
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Provided by: Khan Academy|Published on: April 27, 2021
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Synopsis
- This 6-minute video explains how convection cells and the Earth's rotation create global wind patterns.
- The video also discusses how wind patterns distribute heat and precipitation unevenly around the globe, which helps form different biomes.

Subjects: Earth and Space Sciences
Authors: Khan Academy
Region: Global
Languages: English
Teaching Materials
Preparation:
- Teachers need to create a free account to use Khan Academy.
Classroom Implementation:
- Use this resource in lessons on global wind patterns, convection, air pressure, density, Earth's biomes, or wind energy.
Climate Change Connections:
- Discuss how climate change might affect global wind patterns and the various biomes they create.
Extensions:
- The video mentions that water-covered areas and land-covered areas absorb heat from the sun differently. Ask students to predict how rising sea levels could affect global wind patterns.
- Use the video with this real-time interactive map that displays global wind speed and direction.
Related Resources:
- Other similar resources include this NASA video that highlights the importance of wind and this resource that describes how wind and other factors affect climate.
Scientist Notes
Teaching Tips
Standards
Resource Type and Format
Scientist Reviewed
This resource has been reviewed by SubjectToClimate's climate scientists and verified for scientific accuracy and up-to-date information. Our review process ensures that every resource in our library reflects the current state of climate science.
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