What is the major motivating force behind all weather phenomena?

Study for the Transport Canada Private Pilot License Test. Study with flashcards and multiple-choice questions, each question has hints and explanations. Get ready for your exam!

The major motivating force behind all weather phenomena is indeed the heat energy radiated by the sun. Solar energy is fundamental because it warms the Earth's surface, causing temperature differences that drive atmospheric movements. The uneven heating of the Earth—due to factors such as the angle of sunlight, land and water differences, and geographical features—creates convection currents and pressure systems, which are key components of weather patterns.

This solar energy influences various aspects of the atmosphere, including evaporation, cloud formation, and wind patterns. For example, warm air rises and creates low pressure, leading to the development of weather systems, while cooler air sinks, resulting in high-pressure areas. Understanding this fundamental relationship between the sun's energy and atmospheric behavior is crucial for grasping how weather operates on a global scale.

Other elements, such as wind force variations, are consequences of this heating rather than primary causes. While the Earth does radiate heat and the moon has some effects, they are not the primary drivers of weather phenomena compared to the sun's impact.

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