3. Which of the following is a characteristic of all global winds? A. They all move from areas of high pressure to areas of low pressure. B. They all move from areas of low pressure to areas of high pressure. C. They all move in the same direction toward the equator.

The correct answer is: **A. They all move from areas of high pressure to areas of low pressure.** ### Explanation: Global winds are large-scale wind patterns that circulate around the Earth and are primarily driven by the planet's rotation and the unequal heating of its surface. Here's a brief overview of the main global wind patterns: 1. **Trade Winds**: These winds blow from the subtropical high-pressure areas toward the equatorial low-pressure zone (Intertropical Convergence Zone). They generally move from high to low pressure. 2. **Westerlies**: Located in the mid-latitudes, these winds blow from the high-pressure areas toward the polar low-pressure zones. They also follow the high-to-low pressure movement. 3. **Polar Easterlies**: These are cold winds that blow from the polar high-pressure areas toward the subpolar low-pressure zones, adhering to the high-to-low pressure flow. All these major wind patterns share the characteristic of moving from areas of high pressure to areas of low pressure. This movement is also influenced by the Coriolis effect, which causes the deflection of wind paths due to Earth's rotation. **Why the Other Options Are Incorrect:** - **B. They all move from areas of low pressure to areas of high pressure.** This is incorrect because global winds move from high to low pressure areas, not the other way around. - **C. They all move in the same direction toward the equator.** This is also incorrect. For example, the Westerlies and Polar Easterlies flow away from the equator, not toward it. ### Reference: For a more detailed understanding, you might refer to meteorology textbooks or reputable sources like the [National Weather Service](https://www.weather.gov) which provide comprehensive explanations of global wind patterns. **Answer:** A. They all move from areas of high pressure to areas of low pressure.