How does the concept of 'pressure gradient' explain why some winds are gentle breezes while others are destructive storms?

7 views 1 helpful Updated Jul 27, 2026
Appears in Class 8th
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Answer

The 'pressure gradient' refers to the difference in atmospheric pressure over a given distance. A gentle breeze indicates a small pressure gradient (slight pressure difference). A destructive storm, like a cyclone, is characterized by a very steep pressure gradient (a large and rapid change in pressure over a short distance), leading to extremely strong winds as air rushes rapidly to equalize the massive pressure difference.

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