Question

The variation in geostrophic winds with height, at the atmospheric boundary layer, considering variation in pressure gradient as a function of height, is referred to as ..................

• A. Isallobaric winds
• B. Gradient winds
• C. Thermal winds
• D. Cyclostrophic winds

Hint:

Thermal wind is not an actual wind but a balance relation: vertical wind shear ∝ horizontal temperature gradient.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is C

Step 1: Recall wind types.
- Isallobaric winds: Related to temporal changes in pressure.
- Gradient winds: Curved flow around pressure systems.
- Thermal winds: Vertical shear of geostrophic wind caused by horizontal temperature gradient.
- Cyclostrophic winds: Balance between pressure gradient and centrifugal forces, important in small-scale cyclones.
Step 2: Match with given condition.
The question describes variation of geostrophic wind with height due to pressure gradient variation with height → this is exactly the definition of thermal wind. Final Answer: \[ \boxed{\text{(C) Thermal winds}} \]