can geostrophic winds occur at the equator. I dont think that they can but I would just like a second opinion?

Question

this is for an exam and i cant seem to find any info in my notes

Answer 1

Just cut this out cos I want 10 points Your instincts appear to be right on. Best of luck in your exam
Geostrophic wind
A hypothetical wind based upon the assumption that a perfect balance exists between the horizontal components of the Coriolis force and the horizontal pressure gradient force per unit mass, with the implication that viscous forces and accelerations are negligible. The geostrophic wind blows parallel to the isobars (lines of equal pressure) with lower pressure to the left of the direction of the wind in the Northern Hemisphere and to the right in the Southern Hemisphere. It represents a good approximation to the actual wind at elevations greater than about 3000 ft (900 m), except in instances of strongly curved flow and in the vicinity of the Equator.

The term thermal wind denotes the net change in the geostrophic wind over some specific vertical distance. This change arises because the rate of change of pressure in the vertical is different in two air columns of different air density, so that the horizontal component of the pressure gradient force per unit mass varies in the vertical. The thermal wind is directed approximately parallel to the isotherms of air temperature with cold air to the left and warm air to the right in the Northern Hemisphere, and vice versa in the Southern Hemisphere. Thus, for example, the increasing predominance of westerly winds aloft may be viewed as a consequence of the warmth of tropical latitudes and the coldness of polar regions. See also Coriolis acceleration; Gradient wind; Wind; Wind stress.

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Answer 2

google doldrums

Answer 3

Google DOLDRUMS. There you will find your answer.