The Coriolis effect is a phenomenon that describes the pattern of deflection taken by objects not firmly connected to the ground as they travel long distances around the Earth. It is an inertial or fictitious force that acts on objects in motion within a frame of reference that rotates with respect to an inertial frame. The Coriolis effect is caused by the Earths rotation, which causes circulating air and water to be deflected to the right in the Northern Hemisphere and to the left in the Southern Hemisphere. The Coriolis effect is responsible for the formation of robust features like jet streams and western boundary currents in the ocean and atmosphere. It also affects weather patterns, ocean currents, and air travel. The Coriolis effect is not noticeable for motions occurring over short distances and periods of time, but it becomes significant for motions occurring over large distances and long periods of time, such as large-scale movement of air in the atmosphere or water in the ocean.