What are the two ways atmospheric circulation moves air?

The movement of air in the atmosphere occurs primarily through ascending and descending currents. These processes are vital in understanding how air flows within the atmosphere and how weather patterns develop.

Ascending currents refer to the upward movement of air that often occurs when warm air, which is less dense, rises. As this air ascends, it cools and can lead to cloud formation and precipitation when it reaches saturation. This upward motion is essential for the development of thunderstorms and other weather phenomena.

On the other hand, descending currents involve the movement of cooler, denser air moving downward. This often occurs in high-pressure systems where the air sinks, leading to clear skies and stable weather conditions. The interaction of these ascending and descending currents is fundamental in creating the dynamic weather systems we experience, from calm days to turbulent storms.

Other options like horizontal and vertical currents provide a broader perspective, focusing on the general movement patterns, while convection and conduction relate specifically to heat transfer rather than atmospheric motion. Evaporation and condensation are processes of water vapor and not direct principles of air movement. Thus, the concepts of ascending and descending currents are the most direct ways to describe how air circulates in the atmosphere.