Wind is caused by differences in air pressure in the atmosphere. Air naturally moves from areas of high pressure to areas of low pressure to balance out these differences. This movement of air is what we experience as wind

How Air Pressure Causes Wind

• Air Pressure Differences: Air pressure varies because of temperature differences and moisture content in the air. Warm air is less dense and tends to rise, creating low-pressure areas. Cooler, denser air sinks, forming high-pressure areas

• Pressure Gradient Force: The difference in pressure between high and low areas creates a force called the pressure gradient force (PGF). This force pushes air from the high-pressure zone toward the low-pressure zone. The greater the pressure difference (pressure gradient), the stronger the wind

• Temperature Role: Uneven heating of the Earth's surface by the sun causes temperature variations, which in turn cause pressure differences. Warm air rising leaves behind low pressure, while cooler air creates high pressure, driving air movement

• Wind Direction: Winds generally blow from high to low pressure but are influenced by Earth's rotation (Coriolis effect) and friction near the surface, which can alter their exact direction

Summary

• Wind results from air moving from high-pressure areas to low-pressure areas.
• Temperature differences cause pressure differences by affecting air density.
• The stronger the pressure difference, the faster the wind blows.
• Earth's rotation and surface friction influence wind direction.

Thus, air pressure differences caused primarily by temperature variations drive the movement of air, producing wind