What is Barometric Pressure?
Barometric pressure is the measurement of the weight of the atmosphere on a given point. It is also referred to as atmospheric pressure or air pressure. Barometric pressure is measured using a device called a barometer. The instrument measures the atmospheric pressure of an area over time and displays the results for the user. Barometers have a range of different readings, including inHg (inches of mercury), mmHg (millimeters of mercury), hPa (hectopascal), and mb (millibar). Barometers are commonly used in science, meteorology, and even navigation.
Barometric Pressure and Weather
Barometric pressure, as previously stated, is a measure of the weight of the atmosphere on a given point. As the atmosphere is constantly changing, so too does the barometric pressure. The greatest variation in barometric pressure is typically related to changes in weather. Low atmospheric pressure is associated with bad weather. Conversely, high atmospheric pressure generally signals benign weather conditions, often with clear skies.
The changes in barometric pressure between high and low are not always drastic. Every week, the barometric pressure of an area will typically rise and fall by an average of 2MB.
Practical Uses of Barometric Pressure
Barometric pressure can be used to predict changes in weather and other conditions. It is commonly used by pilots, sailors, and boaters as a means of navigation. By monitoring the changes in barometric pressure, they can determine their location in relation to the various features of their terrain.
Barometric pressure can also be used to determine the altitude of a location. Areas with lower barometric pressure tend to be at higher altitudes, while areas with higher barometric pressure tend to be located at lower altitudes. Moreover, high-altitude locations tend to have a lower mean barometric pressure.
In conclusion, barometric pressure refers to the weight of the atmosphere on a given point. Barometric pressure is measured through a device called a barometer and is subject to variation due to weather and other conditions. Variations in barometric pressure can be used to predict changes in weather and determine altitude. Barometers are commonly used by pilots, sailors, and boaters for navigation purposes.