In a low pressure system, how does the pressure gradient force act?

In a low-pressure system, the pressure gradient force acts in a way that air moves from areas of higher pressure to areas of lower pressure. This means that the force is directed into the low-pressure area. The pressure gradient force is a fundamental concept in meteorology and is responsible for initiating wind. As air converges towards the center of the low-pressure system, it causes lifting of the air within that area, often leading to cloud formation and precipitation.

The other options do not accurately describe the flow associated with low-pressure systems. The pressure gradient force does not act away from the low-pressure area, nor does it act horizontally across isobars in a manner that contradicts its basic definition, as the flow is always directed from high to low pressure. Additionally, while vertical movements do occur due to various atmospheric processes, the primary aspect of the pressure gradient force specifically indicates horizontal movement toward the center of the low-pressure system.