Final answer:
Hydrostatic equilibrium refers to the balance between the weight of layers and the pressures that support them. In Earth's atmosphere, the pressure at any point must be high enough to support the weight of the air above it. Similarly, in Earth's oceans, the pressure at any point must be high enough to support the weight of the water above it.
Step-by-step explanation:
Hydrostatic equilibrium refers to the balance between the weight of layers and the pressures that support them. In the context of Earth's atmosphere, hydrostatic equilibrium means that the pressure at any point in the atmosphere is high enough to support the weight of the air above it.
The pressure on Mt. Everest would differ from the pressure in a classroom because of the difference in altitude. As you go higher in altitude, the pressure decreases because there is less air above exerting weight. In contrast, the pressure in a classroom at sea level is higher because it supports the weight of the entire column of air above it.
In the case of Earth's oceans, hydrostatic equilibrium means that the pressure at any point in the ocean is high enough to support the weight of the water above it. As a scuba diver diving below the surface, the pressure would increase with depth. This is because the weight of the water above exerts more pressure as you go deeper.