Which one among the following forces is most powerful in determining movement of wind including its velocity ?

The pressure gradient force (PGF) is the primary force that sets air in motion and determines wind velocity. Wind is defined as the horizontal movement of air from high-pressure to low-pressure areas [c1][t10]. The speed of the wind is directly proportional to the pressure gradient; closely spaced isobars indicate a steep gradient and higher wind speeds [t3][t6]. While other forces like the Coriolis force, friction, and centrifugal force influence the direction and final velocity of the wind, the PGF is the fundamental 'driving' force that initiates movement [t5][t6]. In the vertical dimension, the pressure gradient is largely balanced by gravity, preventing strong vertical winds [c5]. However, for horizontal atmospheric motion, the PGF is the most powerful determinant of initial velocity and movement [t1][t6].

Sources

1. [1] FUNDAMENTALS OF PHYSICAL GEOGRAPHY, Geography Class XI (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 9: Atmospheric Circulation and Weather Systems > Forces Affecting the Velocity and Direction of Wind > p. 78
2. [2] FUNDAMENTALS OF PHYSICAL GEOGRAPHY, Geography Class XI (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 9: Atmospheric Circulation and Weather Systems > Vertical Variation of Pressure > p. 76
3. [3] https://www.weather.gov/media/zhu/ZHU_Training_Page/winds/pressure_winds/pressure_winds2.pdf
4. [4] https://www.faa.gov/documentLibrary/media/Advisory_Circular/AC%2000-6A%20Chap%204-6.pdf
5. [5] https://www.noaa.gov/jetstream/synoptic/origin-of-wind