Weather theoryQuestion 315 of 934

In the Northern Hemisphere, how does air circulate around a low-pressure area?

  1. Clockwise
  2. Straight away from the center
  3. Counterclockwise
  4. In a pattern that depends on the season
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Correct answer: Counterclockwise

Air flowing into a low is deflected to create counterclockwise, or cyclonic, circulation.

Source: Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge (FAA-H-8083-25C), Chapter 12: Weather Theory — Wind Patterns, page 291

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Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026