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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Barometric Pressure and Atmospheric Pressure?

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Barometric pressure and atmospheric pressure are often used interchangeably, but they actually refer to slightly different concepts. The key difference between the two is that barometric pressure is the pressure measured using a barometer, while atmospheric pressure is the pressure exerted by the atmosphere on the Earth's surface.

  • Barometric Pressure: This is the pressure specifically measured using a barometer, which is a device that measures atmospheric pressure. Barometric pressure is usually expressed in "atmospheres" or "bar". It is the force exerted by the air that surrounds the Earth, and it is determined by the molecules in the air. A rising barometer indicates increasing atmospheric pressure, and a falling barometer indicates decreasing atmospheric pressure.
  • Atmospheric Pressure: Also known as air pressure, atmospheric pressure is the force exerted at any given point on the Earth's surface by the weight of the air that surrounds the Earth. It is the pressure the atmosphere exerts, and it is usually measured in units like Pascal (Pa). Atmospheric pressure decreases with increasing elevation and is affected by factors such as temperature and humidity. One atmosphere (atm) is equal to 101,325 Pa, which is equivalent to 1,013.25 millibars, 760 mm Hg, 29.9212 inches Hg, or 14.696 psi.

In summary, barometric pressure is the pressure measured using a barometer, while atmospheric pressure is the pressure exerted by the atmosphere on the Earth's surface. Although the terms are often used interchangeably, they refer to slightly different concepts.

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  • What is the Difference Between Barometric Pressure and Atmospheric Pressure?
  • Comparative Table: Barometric Pressure vs Atmospheric Pressure

    • Comparative Table: Barometric Pressure vs Atmospheric Pressure

    Barometric pressure and atmospheric pressure are often used interchangeably, but they refer to slightly different concepts. Here is a table highlighting the differences between barometric pressure and atmospheric pressure:

    Feature Barometric Pressure Atmospheric Pressure
    Definition Barometric pressure is the station pressure adjusted to the mean sea level. Atmospheric pressure is the force that air above a surface exerts on that surface.
    Altitude Barometric pressure changes with density altitude. Atmospheric pressure decreases with altitude.
    Measurement Barometric pressure is measured using a device such as a Kestrel weather meter, which adjusts the station pressure in terms of the reference altitude. Atmospheric pressure is measured using highly precise digital gauges that provide data readouts.
    Purpose Barometric pressure is used for predicting weather patterns, as changes in air pressure help meteorologists predict weather changes. Atmospheric pressure is used for applications such as ballistics and auto racing, where it can impact the speed and performance of bullets and cars.

    Remember that station pressure and barometric pressure are equal when measured at sea level.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.