Why is there little air in doldrums?
1 Answer
Sep 6, 2016
There is plenty of air in the doldrums, it just isn't moving.
Explanation:
The most important force required for wind generation is pressure gradient force. This force is achieved when you have a difference in pressure over distance, and the greater the difference the greater the force.
In the case of the doldrums you have an area with uniform temperature and moisture. Temperature and moisture are the two main variables that determine air pressure. Since the temperature and moisture content of the air is fairly uniform in the zone of the doldrums (the Intertropical convergence zone), the pressure is close to equal and there is no gradient formed. No gradient means no gradient force meaning no wind.
