CATABATIC Meaning and
Definition
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Catabatic is an adjective that refers to a type of wind or airflow characterized by its downward motion. This term is often used in meteorology and describes a process in which air masses move from higher to lower altitudes due to gravitational pull or the effect of temperature gradients.
In catabatic conditions, the air near the surface cools down faster than the surrounding air, becoming denser. As a result, it starts to sink and flow downward, creating a downward air current. This phenomenon can be observed in various geographical settings, including mountainous regions, plateaus, or areas with steep slopes.
Catabatic winds are known for their strong and gusty nature, as they can accelerate as they descend, especially if the gradient is steep. They can often reach high speeds, presenting a challenge for transport and outdoor activities. The strength and direction of catabatic winds can also be influenced by other factors such as topography, atmospheric pressure, and temperature differences.
These winds play a significant role in local weather patterns and affect the temperature, humidity, and overall atmospheric stability of an area. They can have both positive and negative impacts, including influencing cloud formation, affecting air pollution dispersion, and influencing local climates.
Overall, catabatic refers to an atmospheric process involving the downward movement of air masses due to gravity, resulting in the presence of strong, descending winds.
Common Misspellings for CATABATIC
- xatabatic
- vatabatic
- fatabatic
- databatic
- cztabatic
- cstabatic
- cwtabatic
- cqtabatic
- carabatic
- cafabatic
- cagabatic
- cayabatic
- ca6abatic
- ca5abatic
- catzbatic
- catsbatic
- catwbatic
- catqbatic
- catavatic
Etymology of CATABATIC
The word "catabatic" traces its etymology to the Greek language. It is derived from the Greek word "katabasis" (κατάβασις), which means "descending" or "to go down". The term "katabasis" itself is a compound word formed by combining "kata" (κατά), meaning "down", and "basis" (βάσις), meaning "a step" or "a going". Therefore, "catabatic" in its etymology refers to something that pertains to a descent or a downward movement.
Similar spelling words for CATABATIC
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