Atmospheric Pressure Flashcards
1
Q
What is a synoptic chart and what does it show?
A
- Shows lines of equal pressure.
- Shows areas of high and low pressure
- Shows fronts and troughs
2
Q
What is the definition of atmospheric pressure?
A
Force per unit area
3
Q
What are the two types of instruments used to measure atmospheric pressure?
A
- Mercury altimeter
2. Aneroid barometer
4
Q
How does pressure decrease with altitude?
A
Decreases
5
Q
What are regular variations in surface pressure?
A
Occur during a 12 hour cycle which is due to heating and cooling of atmosphere that results in expanding and contracting of the atmosphere.
6
Q
What are some causes of irregular variations in pressure?
A
- Passage of weather systems
- Localized heating and cooling of the Earth’s surface
- Humidity
