Regarding the concept of pressure gradient and its role in wind motion, consider the following statements: 1. The pressure gradient force acts from regions of higher pressure toward regions of lower pressure and is the primary force that initiates wind. 2. The magnitude of the pressure gradient force is directly related to how closely spaced the isobars are on a weather map; closer isobars indicate a stronger pressure gradient and stronger winds. 3. When isobars are widely spaced, the pressure gradient is weak and winds at the surface tend to be light. Which of the above statements are correct?

Introduction / Context:
The pressure gradient force is central to understanding why winds blow and why some winds are strong while others are gentle. It is directly linked to the spatial distribution of pressure shown by isobars on weather maps. This question asks you to evaluate statements that describe how pressure gradients initiate and control wind speed.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• We are examining large scale winds in the lower atmosphere.
• Pressure fields can be represented by isobars on synoptic charts.
• Other forces such as Coriolis and friction modify wind direction but do not negate the primary role of the pressure gradient force.
• Isobar spacing is used qualitatively to judge the strength of wind.

Concept / Approach:
The pressure gradient force arises whenever there is a horizontal difference in pressure. It always points from higher pressure toward lower pressure. This force starts air moving and thus creates wind. The greater the pressure difference over a given distance, the stronger the pressure gradient and the stronger the wind that tends to result. On weather maps, a strong gradient appears as closely spaced isobars, while a weak gradient appears as widely spaced isobars. Light winds are therefore associated with gentle pressure gradients and widely spaced isobars.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
If you look at weather maps of intense storms such as deep mid latitude cyclones, you will see tightly packed isobars surrounding the low-pressure center and reports of strong winds there. In contrast, under calm anticyclonic conditions with light winds, isobars are widely spaced, indicating a weak gradient. Observations from meteorological stations consistently confirm the relationships described in all three statements.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Options A, B, and C each omit one of the correct statements, so they do not fully describe the concept. Option E includes only statement 2 and ignores the essential facts that the pressure gradient force initiates wind and that weak gradients result in light winds. Therefore none of these options is complete.

Common Pitfalls:
A common error is to think that strong winds always mean very low pressure, when in fact it is the difference in pressure over distance that matters most. Students also sometimes mix up the direction of the pressure gradient force, assuming it can act from low to high pressure. Remember that isobar spacing on maps is a quick visual clue: closer lines mean stronger winds, wider spacing means calmer conditions.

Final Answer:
Because each statement accurately reflects the role of the pressure gradient force and isobar spacing in controlling wind, statements 1, 2 and 3 are correct.