Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Verified for the 2026 exam
Verified for the 2026 exam•Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Definition
Atmospheric convection cells are large-scale patterns in Earth's atmosphere where warm air rises near the equator and cold air sinks near the poles. These cells play a crucial role in redistributing heat and moisture around the planet.
Related terms
Hadley cell: A type of atmospheric convection cell that exists between 0° and 30° latitude, responsible for tropical weather patterns.