Question

the weather map above represents pressure readings and wind speeds at the earths surface. why arent the wind barbs in the figure above \geostrophic\? a their path is controlled by temperature b they are sped up by gravity c friction slows wind down near the surface curving them toward lower pressure areas d these winds are geostrophic.

Explanation:

Geostrophic wind is the theoretical wind that would result from an exact balance between the Coriolis force and the pressure gradient force. However, near the Earth's surface, friction acts on the wind. Friction reduces the wind speed. As the wind speed decreases, the Coriolis force (which is dependent on wind speed) also decreases. The pressure - gradient force then has a greater influence, causing the wind to move more directly towards the lower - pressure area (i.e., it curves towards lower pressure areas).

Answer:

C. friction slows wind down near the surface curving them toward lower pressure areas