# What is Atmospheric Pressure? Definition, Formula, and Examples
Atmospheric pressure is the force exerted by the weight of air above any given point on Earth’s surface. It plays a crucial role in weather patterns, human health, and various scientific applications.
## **Understanding Atmospheric Pressure**
Atmospheric pressure decreases with altitude and is measured using instruments like barometers. The standard unit is the pascal (Pa), though other units like atmospheres (atm) or millimeters of mercury (mmHg) are also common.
### **How It’s Calculated**
The formula for pressure is ( P = F/A ), where ( P ) is pressure, ( F ) is force, and ( A ) is area. At sea level, standard atmospheric pressure is approximately 101,325 pascals.
### **Real-World Examples**
– Weather Forecasting: High pressure often means clear skies.
– Aviation: Pilots monitor pressure for altitude adjustments.
– Health: Changes can affect people with joint pain or migraines.
For a deeper look, explore this detailed atmospheric pressure definition.
## **Frequently Asked Questions**
**What causes atmospheric pressure?**
It’s caused by the weight of air molecules in the atmosphere.
**How does altitude affect it?**
Pressure decreases as altitude increases due to less air above.
**Why is it important?**
It influences climate, health, and engineering designs.
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