Which of the following statements about atmospheric pressure is true?a...
Atmospheric pressure decreases with increasing altitude. This is because the weight of the air above decreases as altitude increases.
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Which of the following statements about atmospheric pressure is true?a...
Understanding Atmospheric Pressure
Atmospheric pressure refers to the weight of the air above a given point in the atmosphere. This pressure is influenced by various factors, with altitude being a significant one.
Why Option B is Correct
- Decrease with Altitude: As you ascend in altitude, the amount of air above you decreases. This results in less weight pressing down, which leads to a decrease in atmospheric pressure.
- Density of Air: The density of air is higher at lower altitudes because the air molecules are packed more closely together due to gravitational pull. As altitude increases, the air becomes thinner, contributing to lower pressure.
Examples of Atmospheric Pressure Changes
- Mountains: At the top of a mountain, such as Mount Everest, the atmospheric pressure is significantly lower than at sea level. Climbers often experience difficulty breathing due to this reduced pressure.
- Weather Patterns: Weather patterns are influenced by changes in atmospheric pressure. High-pressure systems are typically associated with clear skies, while low-pressure systems can lead to cloudy and rainy conditions.
Conclusion
In summary, atmospheric pressure is not constant and decreases with increasing altitude. This phenomenon is essential for understanding weather, climate, and even aviation, where changes in pressure can affect flight safety and efficiency.