What is the purpose of isobars on weather maps?

Isobars are lines drawn on weather maps that connect points of equal mean sea level pressure. They play a crucial role in meteorology by providing visual representations of atmospheric pressure across different regions. By analyzing the spacing of these lines, meteorologists can infer the strength of the wind, as closely spaced isobars indicate a steep pressure gradient, leading to stronger winds. Conversely, widely spaced isobars suggest lighter winds.

The other provided options relate to different meteorological concepts. For example, drought conditions are assessed through a variety of indicators that go beyond just pressure readings. Temperature variations are typically depicted using isotherms, which specifically connect points of equal temperature, while storm paths are illustrated through various symbols or lines that indicate movement and intensity rather than pressure differences. Thus, the role of isobars is specifically tied to pressure, making the understanding of their purpose essential in the study of weather patterns and phenomena.