What do isobars represent on a weather map?

Isobars are lines drawn on a weather map that connect points of equal atmospheric pressure. They are crucial in meteorology because they help in visualizing pressure patterns across different regions. When analyzing weather maps, isobars can indicate areas of high pressure and low pressure, which are significant for forecasting weather conditions. The spacing between these lines can also provide insights into wind speed; closely spaced isobars suggest stronger winds due to the steep pressure gradient, while widely spaced isobars indicate lighter winds. Understanding isobars is essential for interpreting weather systems and predicting phenomena such as storms and prevailing winds.