Which of the following statements correctly explains both why tropical storms rarely form within 5∘ 5^\circ\,5∘ of the Equator and why low vertical wind shear is a prerequisite for their development?
At the Equator, the Coriolis force is insufficient to initiate the cyclonic rotation of the air mass, whereas low vertical wind shear ensures that the developing convective column remains upright, concentrating the release of latent heat of condensation.
At the Equator, high relative humidity causes premature condensation that dampens updrafts, whereas low vertical wind shear maximizes boundary-layer friction to stabilize the eyewall.
At the Equator, the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) generates strong descending air currents that suppress convective lift, whereas low vertical wind shear maximizes the horizontal temperature gradient.
At the Equator, centrifugal forces prevent the inward radial flow of warm, moist air, whereas low vertical wind shear allows rapid wind speed variation with altitude to drive the initial spin.
