Machine-translated by Google. Questions are authored in English.
Top

Discussion

Assertion (A): The geostrophic wind blows parallel to the isobars.

Reason (R): In geostrophic balance the Coriolis force exactly opposes the pressure gradient force.

Select the correct answer from the options below.

  • A.A is false but R is true
  • B.Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A
  • C.Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A
  • D.A is true but R is false

Answer: B

The Coriolis force is perpendicular to the velocity and the pressure gradient force is perpendicular to the isobars, so if the two are antiparallel the velocity must lie along the isobars. The reason therefore explains the assertion completely. The argument also shows why any observed cross-isobaric flow is evidence of a third force, which in the free atmosphere means the flow is accelerating and in the boundary layer means friction is acting.

No comment is present. Be the first to comment.
Loading…

Post your comment

Please log in or register to post a comment.