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Which distinction matters when applying gradient wind balance in practice?

  • A.The wind must be steady
  • B.The pressure gradient must be evaluated on a constant height surface rather than a pressure surface
  • C.Trajectory curvature differs from streamline curvature
  • D.The radius must be measured from the centre of the system rather than from the centre of the Earth

Answer: C

Gradient wind balance involves the curvature of the parcel's actual path, whereas a chart shows instantaneous streamlines, and the two differ whenever the pattern is moving or developing. For a rapidly moving system the difference is substantial. The distinction is a classic source of error in hand analysis. The radius is of course measured within the system, and either vertical coordinate may be used provided the corresponding form of the pressure gradient term is taken.

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