What is a barometer and how does it work?
A barometer is a scientific instrument used to measure atmospheric pressure, also called barometric pressure. The atmosphere is the layers of air wrapped around the Earth. That air has a weight and presses against everything it touches as gravity pulls it to Earth. Barometers measure this pressure.
What is a barometer easy definition?
barometer, device used to measure atmospheric pressure. Because atmospheric pressure changes with distance above or below sea level, a barometer can also be used to measure altitude. There are two main types of barometers: mercury and aneroid.
How does a barometer look like?
The simplest kind of barometer is a tall closed tube standing upside down in a bath of mercury (a dense liquid metal at room temperature) so the liquid rises partly up the tube a bit like it does in a thermometer. We use mercury in barometers because it’s more convenient than using water.
Where do you place a barometer?
While an inside or outside wall won’t make a difference in your barometer’s performance, placing it too near a heat source may. Situate your barometer so that it is not near a heating vent or sitting in direct sun. This is especially important if your barometer is also a combination thermometer.
Why is the barometer so important?
— Barometers are very important when it comes to weather forecasting. A barometer can measure the pressure of the atmosphere and it can tell us whether or not the air pressure is rising or falling. A meteorologist can use this information to determine whether a storm is coming or leaving.
What is a barometer used for one word?
English Language Learners Definition of barometer : an instrument that is used to measure air pressure and predict changes in the weather. : something that is used to indicate or predict something. See the full definition for barometer in the English Language Learners Dictionary. barometer. noun.
Where do you hang a barometer?
Hang the barometer in a location that works for you. Avoid a location that is exposed to direct sunlight as the temperature changes can affect the readings. Hang the barometer away from drafty locations, like near a door or a window. Air pressure is too variable in these locations.
Why does a barometer have two hands?
So the main purpose of a barometer is to measure not so much the actual air pressure, but the change in pressure over time. In an aneroid barometer there are normally two needles. This will indicate whether the pressure is rising or falling.