MasteryExams
Geography • Physical GeographyMedium

In meteorology, the pressure gradient force acts in which direction relative to the isobars?

A. Parallel to the isobars
B. Perpendicular to the isobars from high to low pressure✓ Correct Answer
C. At a 45-degree angle to the right in the Northern Hemisphere
D. Opposite to the direction of Earth's rotation

💡 Solution & Explanation

The pressure gradient force always operates perpendicularly to isobars, driving air movement directly from high-pressure regions to low-pressure regions. Running parallel to isobars is a characteristic of the geostrophic wind, where the pressure gradient balances the Coriolis force. This foundational concept explains atmospheric circulation patterns in geography papers.

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