3.2.6 In a paragraph of approximately EIGHT lines, explain how the geostrophic wind develops.

The geostrophic wind develops as a balance between the Coriolis force and the horizontal pressure gradient force in the atmosphere. When air moves from high to low pressure, the pressure gradient force accelerates it horizontally. Simultaneously, the Earth's rotation induces the Coriolis force, which acts perpendicular to the wind direction. At higher altitudes, where friction is minimal, these two forces balance each other, causing the wind to flow parallel to isobars instead of directly from high to low pressure. This equilibrium results in a steady, large-scale wind known as the geostrophic wind. The geostrophic approximation is most accurate away from the Earth's surface and in regions with gentle pressure gradients. It is fundamental in meteorology for understanding wind patterns and predicting weather systems. Essentially, the geostrophic wind exemplifies the dynamic interplay between Earth's rotation and atmospheric pressure distributions.