Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated August 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated August 2025
Definition
Convection cells are circular patterns of air or water movement caused by the uneven heating and cooling of a substance. Hot air or water rises, creating an area of low pressure, while cooler air or water sinks, creating an area of high pressure.
High-pressure environment: A region where air molecules are densely packed together due to sinking cool air. This often leads to clear skies and fair weather.
Low-pressure environment: A region where air molecules are spread out due to rising warm air. This often leads to cloudy skies and stormy weather.
Atmospheric circulation: The large-scale movement of air around Earth driven by convection cells, which helps distribute heat energy across different regions.