What describes the air circulation in the friction layer of anticyclones in the Northern Hemisphere?

• A. Counterclockwise Convergent Winds
• B. Clockwise Convergent Winds
• C. Clockwise Divergent Winds
• D. Counterclockwise Divergent Winds

Answer: (C)

In the friction layer of anticyclones in the Northern Hemisphere, air circulation is characterized by clockwise divergent winds. This occurs because, in an anticyclone, high-pressure systems cause air to flow outward from the center. The converging air at the surface leads to rising air, but as it moves away from the center in the friction layer, the Coriolis effect causes the winds to deflect to the right. This results in a clockwise direction of movement around the high-pressure center.

The concept of divergence reflects the nature of the airflow – as air moves away from the center, it creates areas of lower pressure at the surface which is typical in anticyclonic conditions.