Explain how the Hadley Cell works

The Hadley cell is one part of the tricellular global atmospheric circulation of air. It begins at the equator, where intense solar radiation warms the air causing it to rise through convection. This rising air causes low pressure at the surface. As the air rises it cools and moves away from the equator, it then subsides or sinks resulting in high pressure in subtropical areas. 

Surface winds move from high to low pressure as part of the cell. These are called the trade winds that move from sub tropical areas to the equator. This happens on both sides of the equator and where the trade winds meet is called the ITCZ or Inter Tropical Convergence Zone.

TB
Answered by Timothy B. Geography tutor

18072 Views

See similar Geography A Level tutors

Related Geography A Level answers

All answers ▸

How would I go about answering the question, "Examine the causes of a challenge to sovereignty in one named country. [16 marks]"?


Explain the formation of a waterfall.


Discuss ageing populations and policies to counteract this


Assess the potential for aquifers to contribute to Africa’s water supply


We're here to help

contact us iconContact ustelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

MyTutor is part of the IXL family of brands:

© 2026 by IXL Learning