Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Cyclones and anticyclones are large-scale weather systems characterized by circular wind motions around low-pressure and high-pressure centers, respectively.
Their wind circulation directions are governed by the Coriolis force, which acts in opposite directions in the Northern and Southern Hemispheres.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
Let us evaluate each statement:
- Statement (A): "Anticyclones are regions of high pressure and cause clockwise wind circulation in the northern hemisphere."
This statement is correct. An anticyclone is a weather system with high atmospheric pressure at its center.
Winds blow outwards from the high-pressure center.
Due to the Coriolis effect in the Northern Hemisphere, these winds are deflected to the right, creating a clockwise circulation pattern.
- Statement (B): "Anticyclones are regions of low pressure..."
This statement is incorrect. Anticyclones are high-pressure systems, not low-pressure systems.
- Statement (C): "Cyclones are regions of low pressure with circular wind motion."
This statement is correct. A cyclone is characterized by a low-pressure center.
Winds blow inward toward the low-pressure center.
In the Northern Hemisphere, this inward flow is deflected to the right, causing a counter-clockwise circular wind motion.
Therefore, only statements (A) and (C) are correct.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The correct option is (D).