Atmospheric pressure
Definition
Atmospheric pressure is the force per unit area exerted by the weight of the atmosphere above a surface. It is measured using a barometer and typically expressed in units like Pascals (Pa) or atmospheres (atm).
5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test
- Atmospheric pressure at sea level is approximately 101,325 Pa or 1 atm.
- It decreases with altitude because there is less air above to exert force.
- A barometer is an instrument used to measure atmospheric pressure.
- Standard atmospheric pressure can be used as a reference point for measuring other pressures, known as gauge pressure.
- Atmospheric pressure affects various physical phenomena, including boiling points and weather patterns.
Review Questions
- What is the standard value of atmospheric pressure at sea level in Pascals?
- How does atmospheric pressure change with increasing altitude?
- What instrument is used to measure atmospheric pressure?
"Atmospheric pressure" appears in:
Subjects (2)
Related terms
Barometer: An instrument that measures atmospheric pressure.
Gauge Pressure: The difference between absolute pressure and atmospheric pressure.
Pascal (Pa): The SI unit of pressure, equivalent to one newton per square meter.
