Air Pressure

Front

What is air pressure?

Back

Air pressure is the force exerted by the weight of air molecules on a surface. It decreases with altitude.

Front

In what direction does air exert pressure?

Back

Air exerts pressure in all directions.

Front

What are isobars?

Back

Isobars are lines drawn on a map connecting places of equal atmospheric pressure.

Front

How does air pressure change with altitude?

Back

Air pressure decreases as altitude increases.

Front

What weather changes are associated with high air pressure?

Back

High air pressure is typically associated with cooler and drier weather.

Front

What weather changes are associated with low air pressure?

Back

Low air pressure is often associated with cloudy, rainy, or stormy weather.

Front

What happens to air pressure when a storm approaches?

Back

Air pressure typically decreases as a storm approaches.

Front

What is the relationship between air pressure and temperature?

Back

Generally, warmer air is less dense and exerts lower pressure than cooler air.

Front

What instrument is used to measure air pressure?

Back

A barometer is used to measure air pressure.

Front

What is the standard atmospheric pressure at sea level?

Back

The standard atmospheric pressure at sea level is 1013.25 hPa (hectopascals) or 1 atm (atmosphere).