Name __________________________________________ Date __________________
Block ___________
Pressure Gradient and Winds Investigation
Directions:
Pressure gradient force, also known as wind, is an important variable in the atmosphere that helps to define
weather on Earth. By analyzing the differences in pressure between two points on the Earth’s surface, it is often
possible to predict local wind direction and speed. Using the surface weather map, calculate the pressure
gradient in millibars per mile between the points shown in Table. Show your calculations and record your
answers in the spaces provided on the table. Using the letters H ( high pressure) and L (low pressure), fill in the
boxes with the correct letter for the two pressure systems on the map. Draw arrows to show the direction of air
movement for each of the pressure systems.
Points of Map
Change in Pressure (mb)
Distance (miles)
Calculations
Pressure Gradient
A-B
1024mb-1009mb=15mb
700mi
15mb÷700mi
.021 mb/mi
A-C
A-D
A-E
H-F
H-G
H-I