The Coriolis effect is a phenomenon that causes objects, such as wind and water currents, to appear to curve as they move over the Earth's surface. This effect is caused by the rotation of the Earth.
The Coriolis effect does not directly affect falling objects, as it primarily affects objects that are in motion over the Earth's surface. However, it can indirectly affect the path of a falling object by influencing the direction and speed of winds and air currents.
The Coriolis effect causes objects to deflect eastwards to westwards because the Earth rotates from west to east. This rotation causes objects on the Earth's surface to appear to move in a curved path, with objects in the Northern Hemisphere appearing to curve to the right and objects in the Southern Hemisphere appearing to curve to the left.
The Coriolis effect is strongest at the poles because the Earth's rotation is fastest at these latitudes. As a result, objects appear to curve more significantly at the poles than at the equator.
The Coriolis effect plays a significant role in shaping weather patterns around the world. It helps to create large-scale wind and ocean currents, which in turn influence weather systems and patterns. It also affects the direction and intensity of hurricanes and cyclones in the Northern and Southern Hemispheres.