3.2.3 Provide the wind direction at A. 3.2.4 \( \begin{array}{l}\text { In which hemisphere is this geostrophic wind developing? } \\ \text { Provide a reason for your answer. }\end{array} \)

To address your questions on geostrophic winds, let's delve into the principles governing their behavior. Geostrophic winds occur when there's a balance between the **pressure gradient force** and the **Coriolis force**, typically at higher altitudes where friction is negligible. ### 3.2.3 Provide the wind direction at A. **Assumption:** Since the specific diagram or figure referenced by "A" isn't provided, we'll approach this question based on the general behavior of geostrophic winds. - **In the Northern Hemisphere:** Geostrophic winds flow **parallel to the isobars** with the **low pressure on their left** and **high pressure on their right**. This means that if point A is situated between a high and low-pressure area, the wind direction at A would be **clockwise** around high-pressure systems and **counterclockwise** around low-pressure systems. - **In the Southern Hemisphere:** The direction reverses. Geostrophic winds flow **parallel to the isobars** with the **low pressure on their right** and **high pressure on their left**. Hence, the wind circulates **counterclockwise** around high-pressure systems and **clockwise** around low-pressure systems. *Without the specific figure, it's challenging to provide the exact wind direction at point A. However, using the above principles based on the hemisphere in question should guide you to determine the wind direction.* ### 3.2.4 In which hemisphere is this geostrophic wind developing? Provide a reason for your answer. **Answer:** The geostrophic wind is **developing in the Northern Hemisphere**. **Reason:** This determination is based on the behavior of the Coriolis force, which deflects moving air to the **right** in the Northern Hemisphere. This deflection causes the wind to flow parallel to the isobars with the low-pressure area to the **left**. If, for instance, the wind at point A is observed to circulate around a low-pressure system in a counterclockwise direction, it indicates that the wind is developing in the Northern Hemisphere. Conversely, if the circulation were clockwise, it would suggest the Southern Hemisphere. **Key Points:** - **Coriolis Effect Direction:** - **Northern Hemisphere:** Deflection to the right. - **Southern Hemisphere:** Deflection to the left. - **Wind Circulation:** - **Around Low Pressure:** - **Northern Hemisphere:** Counterclockwise. - **Southern Hemisphere:** Clockwise. - **Around High Pressure:** - **Northern Hemisphere:** Clockwise. - **Southern Hemisphere:** Counterclockwise. By analyzing the direction of wind circulation and knowing how the Coriolis effect operates in each hemisphere, you can determine the hemisphere in which the geostrophic wind is developing.