What is the Beaufort scale used for?

The Beaufort scale is a standardized way to estimate wind speed based on observed conditions in the environment, both on land and at sea. Created in the early 19th century by Sir Francis Beaufort, it categorizes wind strength into 13 levels based on the observed effects of the wind, such as its impact on trees, waves, and sailing conditions.

For instance, at lower wind speeds, one might see light breezes capable of rustling leaves, while at higher wind speeds, the scale defines conditions that could lead to more severe disruptions, such as large waves on the ocean or difficulty in walking against the wind. This scale allows sailors and meteorologists to communicate and estimate wind conditions without needing sophisticated instruments, making it a practical tool for understanding weather phenomena.

In contrast, other options, such as estimating temperatures or measuring atmospheric pressure, do not relate to the function of the Beaufort scale, which is solely focused on wind speeds and their effects.