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Grades K–2 · Earth & Space

What makes the wind blow?

Wind is moving air. We cannot see the air itself, but we can see it move leaves and feel it against our skin. What starts the air moving?

E40 visual explanationPressure pushes from both sides on a small air parcel initially at rest. Higher pressure is on left side and the initial net pressure push is right. Equal pressure supplies no net pressure force in this sketch; it does not stop a wind already moving. Rotation, friction and vertical structure are omitted.Unequal pressure pushes can move airPressure pushes on a small bit of airAirHigher pressureLower pressureNet push →A push can start air moving.Sketch shows pressure forces, not a wind forecast.

In the diagramUnequal pressure pushes can move airPressure pushes on a small bit of airAirHigher pressureLower pressureNet push →A push can start air moving.Sketch shows pressure forces, not a wind forecast.

Unequal pressure pushes can start air moving toward the lower-pressure side.

Air presses on things from all sides. This push is called air pressure. If the push on one side of a small bit of air is stronger than the push on the other side, there is a net push toward the lower-pressure side. That push can start the air moving.

The Sun warms places unevenly, helping create differences in air pressure. Earth’s turning and the air rubbing against the ground also affect the wind’s path. The drawing shows just the first idea: unequal pushes can move air. Equal pushes in this picture do not mean that every real wind suddenly stops.

About this explanation

Starting knowledge: Recognize moving air and a push that can start movement.

Connect this idea: Energy & Motion

Sources

  • National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration — Origin of Wind
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