Geostrophic wind level
Term · Meteorology and atmospheric science · MLC-T-MET-005956
The atmospheric altitude above which the wind is considered to be in geostrophic balance, meaning the pressure gradient force and the Coriolis force are the primary forces acting on air parcels. This level marks the top of the planetary boundary layer, where frictional effects from the Earth's surface become negligible. The geostrophic wind level is found at an altitude of about 1 to 2 kilometers above the ground, but its height varies with surface roughness and atmospheric stability.
| Identifier | MLC-T-MET-005956 |
|---|---|
| Field | Meteorology and atmospheric science |
| Synonyms | gradient wind level |
Record as JSON
{
"id": "MLC-T-MET-005956",
"term": "Geostrophic wind level",
"field": "Meteorology and atmospheric science",
"definition": "The atmospheric altitude above which the wind is considered to be in geostrophic balance, meaning the pressure gradient force and the Coriolis force are the primary forces acting on air parcels. This level marks the top of the planetary boundary layer, where frictional effects from the Earth's surface become negligible. The geostrophic wind level is found at an altitude of about 1 to 2 kilometers above the ground, but its height varies with surface roughness and atmospheric stability.",
"synonyms": [
"gradient wind level"
],
"url": "https://mlchart.com/terminology/meteorology/geostrophic-wind-level/"
}
Record 4,074 of 10,756 in Meteorology and atmospheric science terminology (MLC-0110). Request the full dataset.