Pressure and depth
2 marks · EasyA weather map uses isobars to show regions of equal atmospheric pressure. Explain why areas where isobars are close together often experience strong winds.
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Also accept: A large pressure difference over a short distance causes air to move quickly, creating strong winds.; Wind blows from high to low pressure; a steep gradient means faster wind.
Common mistakes: Just stating 'close isobars mean wind' with no explanation
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Marking points
B1 · 1 mark · Explains that wind is caused by air moving from high to low pressure
B2 · 1 mark · States that closer isobars mean a larger pressure difference in a small distance, so air moves faster
Worked solution
Air moves from regions of high pressure to low pressure. When isobars are close together, the pressure difference over a small distance is large, so air moves quickly, causing strong winds.