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On a surface analysis chart, what do closely spaced isobars indicate?

Choices

  • ✓ A strong pressure gradient and stronger windcorrect

    Closely spaced isobars mean a steep pressure gradient, which produces stronger wind.

  • Calm winds and stable air

    Widely spaced isobars, not close ones, indicate lighter wind.

  • The location of a warm front only

    Isobars show pressure, not specifically a front position.

  • Areas of precipitation

    Precipitation is shown by other symbols, not isobar spacing.

Why

Isobars connect points of equal pressure. Closely spaced isobars indicate a strong pressure gradient and therefore stronger wind, while widely spaced isobars indicate lighter wind.

FAA source: FAA-H-8083-28 (surface analysis)browse the reference library →

This is taught in Surface, Prognostic, Radar and Satellite Charts — study the lessons free, then practice with grading and mastery tracking.

Original study question written for this course — representative of FAA knowledge-test topics, not an actual current FAA exam question.

On a surface analysis chart, what do closely spaced isobars indicate? · PPL Free Ground School