Wind: A Key Weather Variable — Passage and Quiz

Wind is the movement of air from areas of high pressure to areas of low pressure. It is a key weather variable that influences temperature, precipitation, and weather patterns.

Wind is caused by differences in air pressure, which are created by uneven heating of the Earth’s surface by the sun. For example, land heats up faster than water, creating pressure differences that cause wind.

Wind is measured using an anemometer, which calculates wind speed, and a wind vane, which determines wind direction. Wind speed is typically measured in meters per second (m/s) or miles per hour (mph), while wind direction is described using compass points (e.g., north, south).

Wind plays a crucial role in weather systems. For example, it drives the movement of storms and helps distribute heat and moisture around the planet. Wind also has practical uses, such as generating electricity through wind turbines.

However, strong winds can also cause damage, like uprooting trees or damaging buildings. Understanding wind patterns is essential for weather forecasting and disaster preparedness.

Fun fact: The fastest wind speed ever recorded on Earth was 253 mph during a tornado in Oklahoma in 1999.