What generally happens to wind speed as altitude increases?

As altitude increases, wind speed generally increases due to several factors related to atmospheric conditions and the effects of ground friction. At lower altitudes, the Earth's surface creates friction that slows down air movement. This frictional force is particularly significant in the boundary layer, which extends a few hundred feet above the ground. As you climb higher, away from this frictional influence, the wind can flow more freely, resulting in higher wind speeds. This trend is especially observable in the upper atmosphere, where the effects of weather systems and jet streams contribute to significantly increased wind speeds.

In contrast, while ground friction is a key factor in the lower atmosphere, wind speed does not remain constant or become erratic at higher altitudes in a consistent manner. The behavior of wind at altitude is more predictable and guided by various meteorological elements such as pressure gradients, temperature differences, and even topography which shape wind patterns.