What does the atmospheric pressure at sea level equal?

What does the atmospheric pressure at sea level equal?

• A. 12.1 pounds per square inch
• B. 14.7 pounds per square inch
• C. 10.3 pounds per square inch
• D. 17.6 pounds per square inch

Answer: (B)

At sea level, the atmospheric pressure is defined as 14.7 pounds per square inch (psi). This value is established based on standard atmospheric conditions, which are typically represented as 101.3 kilopascals or 760 millimeters of mercury in other units of measurement. Understanding this pressure is crucial for divers because it affects buoyancy, gas density, and how gases behave under water. As a diver descends, for every 33 feet of water, the pressure increases by an additional atmosphere (approximately another 14.7 psi). Hence, knowledge of the atmospheric pressure at sea level serves as a fundamental reference point for understanding pressure changes while diving.

At sea level, the atmospheric pressure is defined as 14.7 pounds per square inch (psi). This value is established based on standard atmospheric conditions, which are typically represented as 101.3 kilopascals or 760 millimeters of mercury in other units of measurement.

Understanding this pressure is crucial for divers because it affects buoyancy, gas density, and how gases behave under water. As a diver descends, for every 33 feet of water, the pressure increases by an additional atmosphere (approximately another 14.7 psi). Hence, knowledge of the atmospheric pressure at sea level serves as a fundamental reference point for understanding pressure changes while diving.