How does airflow behave around a high-pressure area?

In meteorology, high-pressure areas are characterized by descending air and typically clear, calm weather conditions. The behavior of airflow around a high-pressure system is such that the air moves clockwise due to the Coriolis effect in the Northern Hemisphere. As the air descends, it compresses and warms, which further inhibits cloud formation and precipitation.

Airflow in high-pressure areas diverges from the center at lower altitudes, but because of the descending motion, it gives the impression that air is sinking toward the ground as it moves outward. This pattern creates stable atmospheric conditions commonly associated with high-pressure systems.

This behavior is a fundamental principle in atmospheric science, significantly influencing weather patterns. Understanding how high-pressure systems function is crucial for accurate weather prediction and for air traffic control operations. Recognizing the movement and characteristics of airflow helps in assessing visibility, potential turbulence, and general flight conditions.

The other choices, while they describe various airflow behaviors, do not accurately depict the specific behavior of air around a high-pressure area.