INTERTROPICAL CONVERGENCE ZONE

             I learned that one of the features of the Earth’s atmosphere is the Intertropical Convergence Zone. This Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) is a key component of the global circulation system.

             How do they originate?

             On or near the equator, where average solar radiation is greatest, air is warmed at the surface and rises. This results to a low pressure area that is found in the equator. The rising air comprises one segment of a circulation pattern called the Hadley Cell. . The rising air is replaced by the Trade winds approaching the equator from north and south. As the trade winds meet near the equator, surface convergence and uplift take place. For this reason the equatorial band of low pressure is called the Equatorial Trough, Intertropical Convergence Zone.

               

             click here to view other information about  ITCZ : http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Intertropical_Convergence_Zone

            This ITCZ is also called Equatorial Convergence Zone, Intertropical Front and doldrums. It is an area with light winds that’s why it is called doldrums. . The convergence of the Southeast and Northeast Trade Winds, within the doldrums, creates a zone of Cumulus clouds and attendant shower activity. This activity includes some thunderstorms and precipitations. To some areas, this ITCZ brings drought and floods because of the wet and dry seasons it brings to the region. 

             

             To sailors, these doldrums are bad areas because there is a lack of horizontal air movement. Early sailors named this belt of calm the doldrums because of the inactivity and stagnation they found themselves in after days of no wind. To find oneself becalmed in this region in a hot and muggy climate could mean death in an era when wind was the only effective way to propel ships across the ocean. Even today leisure and competitive sailors attempt to cross the zone as quickly as possible as the erratic weather and wind patterns may cause unexpected delays.

             I want to know more about other features of the Earth’s atmosphere. I also wanted a deeper knowledge about ITCZ. ITCZ is an important feature of our atmosphere that when further study is taken, its effect to us can be resolved or at least be reduced. Another thing, I would like also to discover other great feature of our atmosphere that affects us in so many ways.

             I would like to research on how ITCZ will benefit us and how man can reduce the bad effects it brings. Over all, ITCZ is a phenomenon that has many disadvantages. This disadvantage brings disaster, famine and even death. These effects could be reduced by studies and being well prepared for the phenomenon itself.

            I appreciate the fact that ITCZ helps in the formation of tropical cyclones which gives the land enough water to sustain vegetation. This is one of the good effects of ITCZ. If sufficient water is supplied, abundant food can be harvested. With this, farmers can gain a bigger profit. Thus, the economy of the country can be increased.

            I can apply my learning and insights in my everyday living. I could inform others specially farmers about the information I gained about ITCZ. By informing them, they will gain enough knowledge on when it is best to plant their crops. Furthermore, they can be prepared for the effects of ITCZ such as drought and floods. Deaths and accidents can be alleviated if the community has enough knowledge about this phenomenon.