Final answer:
Pilots are concerned with the effects of temperature, humidity, and altitude on atmospheric pressure, which influences flight conditions. Barometers measure atmospheric pressure, which decreases with increasing altitude. Atmospheric pressure variances can lead to significant weather changes, affecting flight dynamics.
Step-by-step explanation:
Atmospheric Pressure Factors
Atmospheric pressure is a critical concept for pilots as it influences flight conditions. This pressure is exerted by gas particles colliding with objects in Earth's atmosphere. Pilots must be particularly aware of factors such as temperature, humidity, and altitude, which all impact atmospheric pressure. A barometer is used to measure atmospheric pressure, which decreases as altitude increases—this phenomenon is pivotal for understanding flight dynamics and weather patterns.
Furthermore, atmospheric pressure at sea level is known as the standard atmospheric pressure, recorded as 1 atmosphere (atm), equivalent to 1.01 × 105 N/m² or 101 kPa. Variations in atmospheric pressure can result in weather changes, with 'highs' and 'lows' influencing local and global weather systems, which pilots must navigate.
The weight of the atmospheric column above a given point results in pressures around 100 kPa at sea level, which is also the cause of weather phenomena such as wind generated by pressure differences, leading to potential storm conditions, including tornadoes under certain circumstances.