The geostrophic wind describes a situation where the air moves:

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The geostrophic wind describes a balance between the pressure gradient force and the Coriolis force. In this balance, the air moves parallel to the isobars, with higher pressure on the right and lower pressure on the left in the Northern Hemisphere, or the opposite in the Southern Hemisphere. Option B is incorrect because the geostrophic wind is a horizontal wind, with no vertical movement. Option C is incorrect because the direction of the wind depends on the pressure gradient force distribution, not on latitude alone. Option D is incorrect because the geostrophic wind can be very fast, depending on the pressure gradient force.

The Geostrophic Wind Describes a Situation Where the Air Moves