Atmospheric circulation refers to the large-scale movement of air and the transfer of energy and momentum within the Earth's atmosphere. This global system is primarily driven by uneven solar heating, which creates areas of high and low atmospheric pressure. Air moves from regions of high pressure to low pressure, establishing major wind patterns that circulate through distinct atmospheric cells. These general circulation cells are influenced by the planet's rotation, leading to the deflection of global wind streams via the Coriolis effect. The resulting patterns, such as prevailing winds and jet streams, redistribute heat and moisture across the globe, dictating major climate zones and profoundly impacting global weather systems and oceanic currents.