What is the term for a divergence in atmospheric pressure systems?

The term for a divergence in atmospheric pressure systems is "Divergence." This refers to a situation where air flows away from a central region of low pressure or upward motion, leading to the dispersal of atmospheric mass. In meteorology, divergence is critical as it is associated with the development of storm systems or the stability of the atmosphere. When divergence occurs in the upper levels of the atmosphere, it can lead to sinking air in lower levels, resulting in clear weather in those regions.

Other terms in the list describe different phenomena related to atmospheric dynamics or wind patterns. For instance, trade winds refer to the consistent easterly winds in the tropics, while gradient relates to the rate of change in atmospheric pressure across a certain distance. Convergence, on the other hand, signifies the opposite effect: where air is drawn together, typically leading to rising air and potential storm formation. Therefore, divergence specifically captures the process of atmospheric pressure systems separating or dispersing, essential for understanding weather patterns and systems.