During which phase of the day do winds typically veer and increase?

Study for the ATPL Canadian Meteorology, Radio Aids to Navigation, and Flight Planning (SAMRA) exam. Use multiple-choice questions with explanations. Prepare effectively for your upcoming test!

Winds typically vein and increase during the noon phase of the day primarily due to the effects of solar heating. As the sun rises and begins to heat the Earth's surface, the temperature of the air near the ground increases, leading to a rise in thermal activity. This warming causes surface winds to increase in strength as the differential heating results in the mixing of air layers.

During this time, surface heating generates upward movements of air, creating low-pressure areas that can further enhance wind speeds. Additionally, the change in temperature gradients can cause winds to shift direction, resulting in a veering pattern, which is the tendency of winds to shift towards a clockwise direction with height in the Northern Hemisphere.

While morning may also see some changes in wind patterns, it is typically not as pronounced as during noon when the maximum heating occurs. In the evening and night, cooling effects tend to stabilize the atmosphere, leading to decreased wind speeds and a tendency for winds to back instead of veer.

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