Discussion
Consider the following statements about the pressure gradient force.
1. It points from high pressure towards low pressure.
2. Its magnitude depends on the spacing of the isobars.
3. It requires the air to be already in motion.
Which of the statements given above is or are correct?
Answer: D
The first two statements are correct: the force is directed down the gradient and its size is set by how rapidly pressure changes with distance. The third is false and identifies the essential distinction between the pressure gradient force and every other term in the horizontal equation, since Coriolis, centrifugal and frictional forces all vanish when the air is at rest. That is why the pressure gradient force is the primary driver of all atmospheric motion.
Post your comment
Please log in or register to post a comment.
Examination Categories
- SSC Exams
- Banking Exams
- Teaching Exams
- Civil Services Exams
- Railways Exams
- Engineering Recruitment Exams
- Defence Exams
- State Government Exams
- Police Exams
- Insurance Exams
- Nursing Exams
- Other Government Exams
- NRA CET
- PG Entrance Exams
- Campus Placement
- MBA Entrance Exams
- CUET and UG Entrance
- Judiciary Exams
- Regulatory Body Exams
- Software Development