Which term refers to the convergence of trade winds that creates a low-pressure area near the equator?

The term that refers to the convergence of trade winds that creates a low-pressure area near the equator is known as the Intertropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ). This region is characterized by the meeting of the northeast and southeast trade winds, which occurs near the equator. The convergence of these winds causes air to rise, leading to the formation of clouds and precipitation, resulting in the characteristic tropical rain that defines this zone.

The ITCZ plays a crucial role in global weather patterns, especially in tropical regions, as it shifts slightly north and south depending on the seasons, influencing monsoon patterns and the distribution of tropical rainforests. Understanding the ITCZ is essential for grasping the dynamics of tropical climates and their impact on global weather systems.