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Chapter 6: Problem 16

What is the relation between wind speed and the spacing of isobars?

Short Answer

Expert verified
The relationship between wind speed and the spacing of isobars is such that when isobars are closely spaced, it results in high wind speed due to a steep pressure gradient. On the contrary, widely spaced isobars result in lower wind speeds due to a shallow pressure gradient.

Step by step solution

01

Understanding Isobars

Isobars are lines on a weather map joining places of equal air pressure. This means that each point on a single isobar line has the same atmospheric pressure.
02

Relating Isobars to Wind Speed

Wind speed is generally determined by the difference in air pressure (pressure gradient) over distance. This means that the more closely spaced these lines of equal atmospheric pressure are, the steeper the pressure gradient and hence, the higher the wind speed.
03

Conclusion on the relationship

Therefore, it can be concluded that if isobars are closely spaced on a weather map, the wind speeds will generally be high due to the steep pressure gradient. If the isobars are widely spaced, it represents a shallow pressure gradient and hence generally lower wind speeds.

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