Pressure gradients drive winds to flow:
A)parallel to isobars
B)from low pressure to high pressure
C)from high pressure to low pressure
D)none of the above

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

Winds always flow from high pressure to low pressure due to the pressure gradient force. The closer the isobars are together, the greater the pressure gradient force and the faster the wind will blow. However, winds do not flow parallel to isobars. Isobars simply indicate areas of equal pressure and are used to depict the pressure gradient force, but winds are deflected by the Coriolis force and end up moving around high and low pressure areas, resulting in circulation patterns.

Pressure Gradients Drive Winds to Flow