What effect does a weak pressure gradient produce?

A weak pressure gradient results in a minimal difference in atmospheric pressure over a given distance. This gentle pressure change leads to a lighter force acting on the air, which translates to lighter winds. Essentially, when the pressure gradient is weak, the wind speeds decrease, and as a result, the atmosphere is often more stable and calmer.

In weather patterns, calm winds associated with a weak pressure gradient can indicate clear conditions, as there is less vertical mixing of the atmosphere. This stability can help promote the formation of certain weather conditions, such as high-pressure systems where clouds may dissipate and lead to sunny skies.

The other options point toward conditions associated with stronger pressure gradients: strong winds typically arise from steep pressure differences, stormy weather is linked with rapidly changing pressure conducive to thunderstorms and cyclones, and changes in temperature are influenced by various factors in the atmosphere but are not directly caused by a weak pressure gradient alone.