How is strong pressure gradient represented on a weather map ?

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Closely spaced isobars

Widely spaced isobars

Closely spaced isobars at the periphery

A set of two widely spaced isobars followed by two closely spaced isobars

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UPSC CDS-2 – 2024

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On a weather map, isobars are lines connecting points of equal atmospheric pressure. The pressure gradient is the rate of change of pressure over a horizontal distance. A strong pressure gradient indicates a large change in pressure over a short distance, which results in high wind speeds. On a weather map, this is visually represented by isobars that are drawn very close together. Conversely, widely spaced isobars indicate a weak pressure gradient and light winds.

The pressure gradient force is one of the primary forces driving wind. It acts perpendicular to isobars, from areas of high pressure to areas of low pressure.

The closer the isobars, the stronger the pressure gradient, and consequently, the stronger the pressure gradient force and potentially higher wind speeds (though other factors like the Coriolis effect and friction also influence wind).

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