Atmospheric Pressure

  • Air pressure is an essential element of weather, especially when it comes to creating or changing atmospheric conditions.
  • It is also one of the critical variables used to make accurate weather forecasts.
  • Air Pressure is the result of the pressure created by the weight of the air in the Earth’s atmosphere.
  • It is also called a barometric pressure, named after the instrument used to measure air pressure.
  • Although it may not be visible, air has weight since it is not empty. It is filled with small particles of nitrogen, oxygen, argon, carbon dioxide and a few other gases.
  • The weight of the particles in the air creates pressure due to the gravitational force of the Earth.
  • Since more air is present above the air close to the ground, air pressure is the highest on the planet’s surface and decreases as altitude increase.
  • The barometer is the instrument used to measure air pressure.