Final answer:
Atmospheric pressure decreases more rapidly than linearly with altitude mainly due to the exponential decrease in atmospheric density, which results in less air weighing down and lower pressure as you ascend.
Step-by-step explanation:
Atmospheric pressure decreases more rapidly than linearly with altitude principally because the atmospheric density decreases with altitude. This relationship is influenced by the ideal gas law, which when temperature is constant, shows that pressure decreases exponentially with altitude. However, in reality, the temperature also changes with altitude, affecting the rate of pressure decrease. The correct answer to the quiz question is 'c) Atmospheric density decreases with altitude.' The change in atmospheric density is exponential because the air above thins out as you ascend. This means there is less air to 'weigh down,' resulting in a decrease in pressure.
It's important to note that gravitational forces do not increase with altitude; they actually decrease slightly. However, this effect is negligible when compared to the significant reduction in air density. Moreover, atmospheric pressure does not remain constant at all altitudes, as stated in option 'd.' The large force exerted by atmospheric pressure does not crush you because it acts equally in all directions, and your body contains internal pressure that balances it out.