METEOROLOGY – WIND CALCULATOR
Geostrophic Wind Speed
A precise tool.
What is the Geostrophic Wind Speed & How does it work?
Geostrophic wind is the theoretical wind that would result from an infinite atmosphere, with no friction and a linear pressure gradient. This wind blows parallel to isobars in the mid-latitudes.
The geostrophic wind speed can be calculated using the formula:
v_g = frac{1}{rho_0 f} frac{dp}{dx}
v_g = geostrophic wind speed, rho_0 = reference air density, f = Coriolis parameter, frac{dp}{dx} = pressure gradient in the x-direction
The Coriolis parameter is given by:
f = 2 Omega sin(phi)
f = Coriolis parameter, Omega = Earth’s angular velocity (approximately 7.29 x 10-5 s-1), phi = latitude
Parameters
Result
β
Frequently Asked Questions
What is geostrophic wind?
Geostrophic wind is a theoretical wind that blows parallel to isobars in the mid-latitudes, resulting from an infinite atmosphere with no friction.
How do you calculate geostrophic wind speed?
Use the formula v_g = (1 / (Ο_0 * f)) * (dp/dx), where Ο_0 is reference air density, f is the Coriolis parameter, and dp/dx is the pressure gradient in the x-direction.
What is the Coriolis parameter?
The Coriolis parameter is given by f = 2Ξ©sin(Ο), where Ξ© is the Earth’s angular velocity and Ο is the latitude.
Why is geostrophic wind important in meteorology?
Geostrophic wind is important because it helps predict atmospheric circulation patterns, especially in mid-latitudes.
What factors affect the geostrophic wind speed?
The geostrophic wind speed is affected by reference air density, the Coriolis parameter (which depends on latitude), and the pressure gradient.
Results are for informational purposes only and do not constitute professional advice.