What do isobars indicate on a weather map?

Isobars are lines drawn on a weather map that connect points of equal atmospheric pressure. When analyzing weather patterns, understanding isobars is crucial because they indicate how pressure varies across a given area. Closely spaced isobars suggest a steep pressure gradient, which typically corresponds to stronger winds, while widely spaced isobars indicate a gentler pressure gradient and lighter winds.

This concept is fundamental in meteorology as it helps forecasters understand wind patterns, storm systems, and general weather conditions. Weather systems such as high-pressure areas and low-pressure systems are prominently featured and can be identified by the arrangement and spacing of isobars. Therefore, recognizing that isobars represent equal pressure helps in interpreting weather dynamics effectively.