Enter the sea level pressure, altitude, and temperature into the calculator to determine the atmospheric temperature at altitude.

Atmospheric Pressure Formula

The following formula is used to calculate the atmospheric pressure at a certain altitude.

  • Where P is the atmospheric pressure
  • P0 is the base level pressure at no height (101325 Pa)
  • H is the height (meters)
  • T is the temperature (K)
  • g is the acceleration due to gravity (9.8 m/s^2)
  • M is the molar mass of dry air (.028969 kg/mol)
  • R is the universal gas constant (8.3144626 mol*K)

Atmospheric Pressure Definition

Atmospheric pressure refers to the force exerted by the Earth’s atmosphere on objects within it. It is the weight of the air above a specific point, pushing down on the surface below.

This pressure results from the gravitational pull on the air molecules, causing them to be more tightly packed closer to the Earth’s surface.

Atmospheric pressure plays a crucial role in various natural phenomena and human activities.

One significant impact of atmospheric pressure is on weather patterns. Differences in air pressure across regions create wind, which in turn influences the movement of weather systems. High-pressure areas tend to be associated with clear skies and calm weather, while low-pressure areas often indicate the presence of storms or precipitation.

Atmospheric Pressure Example

How to calculate atmospheric pressure?

  1. First, determine the height.

    Measure or calculate the altitude in the atmosphere.

  2. Next, determine the temperature.

    Measure the temperature of the surrounding air.

  3. Finally, calculate the atmospheric pressure.

    Calculate the atmospheric pressure using the equation above.

FAQ

How does altitude affect atmospheric pressure?

As altitude increases, atmospheric pressure decreases. This is because at higher altitudes, the air is less dense and there are fewer air molecules to exert pressure.

Why is understanding atmospheric pressure important for weather prediction?

Atmospheric pressure is a key factor in weather systems. High and low-pressure areas influence wind patterns and precipitation, making it crucial for predicting weather conditions.

Can atmospheric pressure affect human health?

Yes, extreme changes in atmospheric pressure can affect human health, including causing joint pain, headaches, and in some cases, exacerbating respiratory problems.