Which of the following is measured using a barometer?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: B
Explanation
Correct Answer
Pressure
Explanation
A barometer is a scientific instrument used to measure atmospheric pressure (also known as barometric pressure). Atmospheric pressure is the force exerted by the weight of the air in the atmosphere of Earth. Measuring changes in air pressure is crucial for meteorologists as it helps them forecast short-term changes in the weather; a sudden drop in pressure usually indicates an approaching storm or low-pressure system, while rising pressure generally signals clear, fair weather.
Key Points
The first working mercury barometer was invented by the Italian physicist and mathematician Evangelista Torricelli in 1643. The standard unit of atmospheric pressure is measured in atmospheres (atm), millibars (mb), or Pascals (Pa), where 1 atmosphere is roughly equal to 1013.25 millibars. Aneroid barometers are a popular non-liquid alternative that uses a small, flexible metal box called an aneroid capsule to measure pressure variations.
Important Questions and Answers
Question: Which scientist is credited with inventing the first mercury barometer in the year 1643?
Answer: Evangelista Torricelli.
Question: What type of weather change is typically forecasted when a barometer shows a sudden and rapid drop in air pressure?
Answer: Stormy, rainy, or unsettled weather.