The Earth's rotation does have an effect on the wind patterns, but it doesn't cause extreme wind speeds at the equator. This phenomenon is known as the Coriolis effect.
The Coriolis effect is an apparent deflection of moving objects, including air and water currents, caused by the rotation of the Earth. It influences the direction of winds and ocean currents. As the Earth rotates, different points on its surface move at different speeds depending on their distance from the equator. This difference in rotational speed affects the motion of air masses.
Near the equator, the Coriolis effect is relatively weak because the rotational speed is highest there. As a result, the wind is not deflected as much, and the effect on wind speed is minimal. This is why the equatorial region experiences relatively calm winds, known as the doldrums.
On the other hand, as you move away from the equator toward the poles, the rotational speed decreases, and the Coriolis effect becomes more pronounced. This leads to stronger deflection of air masses and the formation of prevailing wind patterns such as the trade winds and prevailing westerlies.
It's important to note that other factors, such as the distribution of heat and pressure systems, also play a significant role in determining wind patterns. The Coriolis effect is just one of the contributing factors, albeit an important one, that helps shape global wind circulation patterns.