| This calculator demonstrates the mathematics of determining the geostrophic wind speed at a variety of latitudes, temperatures, and heights. The calculator is pre-formatted for a height of 11 km (the "average" height of the troposphere), a latitude of 45o north, and an average temperature of 0o Celsius (converted to degrees Kelvin, K = C +273.15). The mathematics of this calculation are shown in the graphic at right. The geostrophic wind is a theoretical wind speed that results from a balance between the Coriolis force and the pressure-gradient force, concepts explored in greater detail in later readings. |
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