Shown is a contour map of atmospheric pressure in North...

Shown is a contour map of atmospheric pressure in North America on August 12, 2008. On the level curves (called isobars) the pressure is indicated in millibars (mb). (a) Estimate the pressure at $C$ (Chicago), $N$ (Nashville), $S$ (San Francisco), and $V$ (Vancouver). (b) At which of these locations were the winds strongest?

Shown is a contour map of atmospheric pressure in North America on August 12, 2008. On the level curves (called isobars) the pressure is indicated in millibars (mb).
(a) Estimate the pressure at $C$ (Chicago), $N$ (Nashville), $S$ (San Francisco), and $V$ (Vancouver).
(b) At which of these locations were the winds strongest?

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Key Concepts

Atmospheric Pressure

Atmospheric pressure is the force exerted by the weight of the Earth's atmosphere on a given area, typically measured in millibars (mb). It is a fundamental variable in meteorology that influences weather patterns and phenomena.

Pressure Gradient Force

The pressure gradient force is the force resulting from differences in atmospheric pressure across distances. It drives the wind, with the strongest winds occurring where the pressure differences (and therefore the gradients) are greatest, which is often indicated by closely spaced isobars on a map.

Contour Maps

Contour maps are graphical representations in which continuous lines connect points of equal value, such as elevation or pressure. They help visualize spatial variations across a region, allowing one to estimate values at specific locations by interpreting the spacing and pattern of the contours.

Isobars

Isobars are specific types of contour lines used in meteorology that connect points of equal atmospheric pressure. They are crucial for indicating areas of high and low pressure on weather maps, and by interpreting these lines, meteorologists can estimate pressure values at various locations.

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