8.6. Mercury Barometer

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is gauge pressure?

   Hint

   Think about the reference point for measuring pressure.

2. 2.

   Define vacuum pressure.

   Hint

   Consider how it would feel in a space where air is removed.

3. 3.

   Gauge pressure is defined as pressure measured above which level?

   • Absolute zero
   • Vacuum
   • Atmospheric pressure

   Hint

   Think of gauge pressure as what you would read on a tire pressure gauge.

4. 4.

   True or False: The pressure in a mercury barometer increases with height.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Reflect on how the barometer functions at different altitudes.

5. 5.

   A mercury barometer shows a height of 700 mm Hg. Calculate the atmospheric pressure in kPa. What does this indicate about altitude?

   Hint

   Use the conversion factor: 1 mmHg = 0.133322 kPa.

6. 6.

   If a mercury barometer is taken from sea level to a mountain with a height of 3000 meters, will the mercury column rise or fall? Why?

   Hint

   Consider how atmospheric conditions change with elevation.