What is described as an elongated area of high pressure in meteorology?

In meteorology, a ridge refers to an elongated area of high pressure in the atmosphere. It is characterized by relatively high atmospheric pressure compared to the surrounding areas, which leads to clear skies and stable weather conditions. Ridges can extend over large distances, and they are commonly associated with warm, dry air, which inhibits cloud formation and precipitation.

When weather systems approach a ridge, they generally see a decrease in cloudiness and storm activity, making ridge formations key players in determining regional weather patterns. This is distinct from other options; for example, a trough is an area of low pressure, a cyclone is a system characterized by low pressure that often brings stormy weather, and a front represents a boundary between two air masses which can lead to varying weather phenomena. Understanding these distinctions helps in grasping broader meteorological concepts.