What characterizes a katabatic wind?

A katabatic wind is characterized by its movement down an inclined surface, typically from higher elevations to lower areas. These winds occur when cold, dense air accumulates at higher altitudes and then flows down due to gravity. As the air descends, it can gain speed and can also become warmed adiabatically, which may cause significant effects on local weather conditions.

In contrast, winds that rise from sea level, blow up mountains, or circulate around a high-pressure center represent different meteorological phenomena and do not pertain to the characteristics of katabatic winds, which are distinctly defined by their descent from elevated terrain. Understanding this concept is crucial for interpreting weather patterns and their implications for aviation and other fields impacted by atmospheric conditions.