Determination of normal atmospheric pressure. Atmospheric pressure: comfortable norms for a person, units of measurement, reasons for the formation of areas of low and high pressure. Atmospheric pressure norm

People of various professions should be aware of the concept of atmospheric pressure: doctors, pilots, scientists, polar explorers and others. It directly affects the specifics of their work. Atmospheric pressure is a quantity that helps predict and forecast the weather. If it rises, then this indicates that the weather will be sunny, and if the pressure drops, then this portends worsening weather conditions: clouds appear and precipitation occurs in the form of rain, snow, hail.

The concept and essence of atmospheric pressure

Definition 1

Atmospheric pressure is the force that acts on a surface. In other words, at each point in the atmosphere, the pressure is equal to the mass of the overlying column of air with a base that is equal to one.

The unit of atmospheric pressure is the Pascal (Pa), which equates to a force of 1 Newton (N) acting on an area of ​​1 m2 (1 Pa = 1 N/m2). Atmospheric pressure in metrology is expressed in hectopascals (hPa) with an accuracy of 0.1 hPa. And 1 hPa, in turn, is equal to 100 Pa.

Until recently, the millibar (mbar) and millimeter of mercury (mm Hg) were used as a unit of atmospheric pressure. Pressure is measured absolutely at all meteorological stations. In order to produce surface synoptic maps that reflect the weather conditions at a given time period, the pressure at station level is brought into line with sea level values. Thanks to this, it is possible to distinguish areas with high and low atmospheric pressure (anticyclones and cyclones), as well as atmospheric fronts.

Definition 2

The average atmospheric pressure at sea level, which is determined at a latitude of 45 degrees, at an air temperature of 0 degrees, is 1013.2 hPa. This value is taken as standard, it is called "normal pressure".

Atmospheric pressure measurement

We often forget that air has weight. Near the Earth's surface, the air density is 1.29 kg/m3. Galileo also proved that air has weight. And his student, Evangelista Torricelli, was able to prove that air affects all bodies that are located on the earth's surface. This pressure became known as atmospheric pressure.

The formula for calculating the pressure of a liquid column cannot calculate atmospheric pressure. After all, for this it is necessary to know the height of the liquid column and the density. However, the atmosphere does not have a clear boundary, and with increasing altitude, the density of atmospheric air decreases. Therefore, Evangelista Torricelli proposed a different method for determining and finding atmospheric pressure.

He took a glass tube about a meter long, which was sealed at one end, poured mercury into it and lowered the open part into a bowl with mercury. Some of the mercury spilled into the bowl, but most of it remained in the tube. Every day, the amount of mercury in the pipe fluctuated slightly. Mercury pressure at a certain level is created using the weight of the mercury column, since there is no air above the mercury in the upper part of the tube. There is a vacuum, which is called the "Torricellian void."

Remark 1

Based on the foregoing, we can conclude that atmospheric pressure is equal to the pressure of the mercury column in the tube. By measuring the height of the mercury column, you can calculate the pressure that mercury produces. It equates to atmospheric. If atmospheric pressure rises, then the mercury column in the Torricelli tube increases, and vice versa.

Figure 1. Atmospheric pressure measurement. Author24 - online exchange of student papers

Atmospheric pressure instruments

To measure atmospheric pressure, the following types of instruments are used:

  • station mercury cup barometer SR-A (for the range of 810-1070 hPa, which is typical for the plains) or SR-B (for the range of 680-1070 hPa, which is observed at high-altitude stations);
  • aneroid barometer BAMM-1;
  • barograph meteorological M-22A.

The most accurate and commonly used are mercury barometers, which are used to measure atmospheric pressure at meteorological stations. They are located indoors in specially equipped cabinets. Access to them is strictly limited for safety reasons: only specially trained specialists and observers can work with them.

More common are aneroid barometers, which are used to measure atmospheric pressure at meteorological stations and at geographic stations for route research. Often they are used for barometric leveling.

The M-22A barograph is most often used to fix and continuously record any changes in atmospheric pressure. They can be of two types:

  • in order to register the daily change in pressure, M-22AC is used;
  • in order to register the change in pressure within 7 days, M-22AH is used.

Device and principle of operation of devices

Let's start with a cup of mercury barometer. This instrument consists of a calibrated glass tube filled with mercury. Its upper end is sealed, and the lower end is immersed in a bowl of mercury. The cup of a mercury barometer consists of three parts, which are connected by a thread. The middle bowl has a diaphragm with special holes inside. The diaphragm makes it difficult for the mercury to oscillate in the bowl, thus preventing air from entering.

In the upper part of the cup mercury barometer there is a hole through which the cup communicates with air. In some cases, the hole is closed with a screw. There is no air in the upper part of the tube, therefore, under the influence of atmospheric pressure, the column of mercury in the flask rises to a certain height on the surface of the mercury in the bowl.

The mass of the mercury column is equal to the atmospheric pressure.

The next instrument is the barometer. The principle of its device is as follows: the glass tube is protected by a metal frame, on which the measurement scale in pascals or millibars is applied. The upper part of the frame has a longitudinal slot in order to observe the position of the mercury column. For the most accurate report of the meniscus of mercury, there is a ring with a vernier, which moves along the scale with a screw.

Definition 3

A scale that is designed to determine tenths is called a compensated scale.

It is protected from contamination by a protective cover. A thermometer is mounted in the middle part of the barometer in order to take into account the influence of the ambient temperature. According to his testimony, a temperature correction is introduced.

In order to eliminate distortions in the readings of the mercury barometer, a number of amendments are introduced:

  • temperature;
  • instrumental;
  • corrections for the acceleration of gravity depending on the height above sea level and the latitude of the place.

Aneroid barometer BAMM-1 is used to measure atmospheric pressure in surface conditions. Its sensing element is a block, which consists of three connected aneroid boxes. The principle of the aneroid barometer is based on the deformation of the membrane boxes under the action of atmospheric pressure and the transformation of the linear displacements of the membranes with the help of a transmission mechanism into the angular displacements of the boom.

The receiver is a metal aneroid box, which is equipped with a corrugated bottom and a lid, the air is completely pumped out of them. The spring pulls back the lid of the box and prevents it from being flattened by air pressure.

Figure 2. Confirmation of the existence of atmospheric pressure. Author24 - online exchange of student papers

Atmospheric air has a physical density, as a result of which it is attracted to the Earth and creates pressure. During the development of the planet, both the composition of the atmosphere and its atmospheric pressure changed. Living organisms were forced to adapt to the existing air pressure, changing their physiological characteristics. Deviations from the average atmospheric pressure cause changes in a person's well-being, while the degree of sensitivity of people to such changes is different.

normal atmospheric pressure

The air extends from the Earth's surface to heights of the order of hundreds of kilometers, beyond which interplanetary space begins, while the closer to the Earth, the more air is compressed under the action of its own weight, respectively, atmospheric pressure is highest at the earth's surface, decreasing with increasing altitude.

At sea level (from which it is customary to count all heights), at a temperature of +15 degrees Celsius, atmospheric pressure averages 760 millimeters of mercury (mm Hg). This pressure is considered to be normal (from a physical point of view), which does not mean at all that this pressure is comfortable for a person under any conditions.

Atmospheric pressure is measured with a barometer graduated in millimeters of mercury (mmHg) or other physical units such as pascals (Pa). 760 millimeters of mercury correspond to 101,325 pascals, but in everyday life the measurement of atmospheric pressure in pascals or derived units (hectopascals) did not take root.

Previously, atmospheric pressure was also measured in millibars, now obsolete and replaced by hectopascals. The norm of atmospheric pressure is 760 mm Hg. Art. corresponds to the standard atmospheric pressure of 1013 mbar.

Pressure 760 mm Hg. Art. corresponds to the action on each square centimeter of the human body by a force of 1.033 kilograms. In total, the air presses on the entire surface of the human body with a force of about 15-20 tons.

But a person does not feel this pressure, since it is balanced by air gases dissolved in tissue fluids. This balance is disturbed by changes in atmospheric pressure, which a person perceives as a deterioration in well-being.

For some areas, the average value of atmospheric pressure differs from 760 mm. rt. Art. So, if in Moscow the average pressure is 760 mm Hg. Art., then in St. Petersburg only 748 mm Hg. Art.

At night, atmospheric pressure is slightly higher than daytime, and at the Earth's poles, atmospheric pressure fluctuations are more pronounced than in the equatorial zone, which only confirms the pattern that the polar regions (Arctic and Antarctic) as a habitat are hostile to humans.

In physics, the so-called barometric formula is derived, according to which, with an increase in altitude for each kilometer, atmospheric pressure drops by 13%. The actual distribution of air pressure does not follow the barometric formula quite accurately, since temperature, atmospheric composition, water vapor concentration and other indicators change depending on altitude.

Atmospheric pressure also depends on the weather, when air masses move from one area to another. All living things on Earth also react to atmospheric pressure. So, fishermen know that the atmospheric pressure for fishing is reduced, because when the pressure drops, predatory fish prefer to go hunting.

Impact on human health

Weather-dependent people, and there are 4 billion of them on the planet, are sensitive to changes in atmospheric pressure, and some of them can quite accurately predict weather changes, guided by their well-being.

It is quite difficult to answer the question of what atmospheric pressure is the most optimal for places of residence and life of a person, since people adapt to life in different climatic conditions. Usually the pressure is in the range from 750 to 765 mm Hg. Art. does not worsen the well-being of a person, these atmospheric pressure values ​​\u200b\u200bcan be considered within the normal range.

With changes in atmospheric pressure, weather-dependent people can feel:

  • headache;
  • vasospasm with circulatory disorders;
  • weakness and drowsiness with increased fatigue;
  • pain in the joints;
  • dizziness;
  • feeling of numbness in the limbs;
  • decrease in heart rate;
  • nausea and intestinal disorders;
  • shortness of breath
  • decrease in visual acuity.

Baroreceptors located in the body cavities, joints and blood vessels are the first to respond to pressure changes.

With a change in pressure, weather-sensitive people experience disturbances in the work of the heart, heaviness in the chest, pain in the joints, and in case of digestive problems, flatulence and intestinal disorders are also observed. With a significant decrease in pressure, the lack of oxygen in the brain cells leads to headaches.

Also, changes in pressure can lead to mental disorders - people feel anxious, irritated, sleep restlessly or, in general, cannot fall asleep.

Statistics confirm that with sharp changes in atmospheric pressure, the number of offenses, accidents in transport and production increases. The influence of atmospheric pressure on arterial pressure is traced. In hypertensive patients, high atmospheric pressure can cause a hypertensive crisis with headache and nausea, despite the fact that clear sunny weather is set at this moment.

On the contrary, hypotensive patients react more sharply to a decrease in atmospheric pressure. The reduced concentration of oxygen in the atmosphere causes them circulatory disorders, migraines, shortness of breath, tachycardia and weakness.

Weather sensitivity can be the result of an unhealthy lifestyle. The following factors can lead to meteosensitivity or aggravate the degree of its manifestation:

  • low physical activity;
  • malnutrition with concomitant overweight;
  • stress and constant nervous tension;
  • bad state of the environment.

The elimination of these factors reduces the degree of meteosensitivity. Weather dependent people should:

  • include in the diet foods high in vitamin B6, magnesium and potassium (vegetables and fruits, honey, lactic acid products);
  • limit the consumption of meat, salty and fried foods, sweets and spices;
  • stop smoking and drinking alcohol;
  • increase physical activity, take walks in the fresh air;
  • streamline sleep, sleep at least 7-8 hours.

Attention! The site administration site is not responsible for the content of methodological developments, as well as for the compliance of the development of the Federal State Educational Standard.

  • Participant: Vertushkin Ivan Aleksandrovich
  • Head: Vinogradova Elena Anatolyevna
Topic: "Atmospheric pressure"

Introduction

It's raining outside today. After the rain, air temperature decreased, humidity increased and atmospheric pressure decreased. Atmospheric pressure is one of the main factors that determine the state of weather and climate, so knowledge of atmospheric pressure is essential in weather forecasting. The ability to measure atmospheric pressure is of great practical importance. And it can be measured with special barometers. In liquid barometers, as the weather changes, the liquid column rises or falls.

Knowledge of atmospheric pressure is necessary in medicine, in technological processes, in the life of a person and all living organisms. There is a direct relationship between atmospheric pressure changes and weather changes. An increase or decrease in atmospheric pressure can be a sign of weather changes and affect a person's well-being.

Description of three interconnected physical phenomena from everyday life:

  • Relationship between weather and atmospheric pressure.
  • Phenomena underlying the operation of instruments for measuring atmospheric pressure.

The relevance of the work

The relevance of the chosen topic lies in the fact that at all times people, thanks to their observations of the behavior of animals, could predict weather changes, natural disasters, and avoid human casualties.

The influence of atmospheric pressure on our body is inevitable, sudden changes in atmospheric pressure affect the well-being of a person, especially weather-dependent people suffer. Of course, we cannot reduce the impact of atmospheric pressure on human health, but we can help our own body. Correctly organizing your day, allocating time between work and rest can help the ability to measure atmospheric pressure, knowledge of folk signs, and the use of home-made devices.

Objective: find out what role atmospheric pressure plays in a person's daily life.

Tasks:

  • Learn the history of atmospheric pressure measurement.
  • Determine if there is a relationship between weather and atmospheric pressure.
  • To study the types of instruments designed to measure atmospheric pressure, made by man.
  • To study the physical phenomena underlying the operation of instruments for measuring atmospheric pressure.
  • The dependence of liquid pressure on the height of the liquid column in liquid barometers.

Research methods

  • Literature analysis.
  • Generalization of the received information.
  • Observations.

Field of study: Atmosphere pressure

Hypothesis: atmospheric pressure is important for humans .

Significance of work: the material of this work can be used in the classroom and in extracurricular activities, in the lives of my classmates, students of our school, all lovers of nature studies.

Work plan

I. Theoretical part (collection of information):

  1. Review and analysis of literature.
  2. Internet resources.

II. Practical part:

  • observations;
  • collection of weather information.

III. Final part:

  1. Findings.
  2. Presentation of the work.

History of atmospheric pressure measurement

We live at the bottom of a vast ocean of air called the atmosphere. All changes that occur in the atmosphere will certainly affect a person, his health, ways of life, because. man is an integral part of nature. Each of the factors that determine the weather: atmospheric pressure, temperature, humidity, ozone and oxygen content in the air, radioactivity, magnetic storms, etc. has a direct or indirect effect on a person's well-being and health. Let's take a look at atmospheric pressure.

Atmosphere pressure- this is the pressure of the atmosphere on all objects in it and the Earth's surface.

In 1640, the Grand Duke of Tuscany decided to make a fountain on the terrace of his palace and ordered to bring water from a nearby lake using a suction pump. The invited Florentine craftsmen said this was not possible because the water had to be sucked up over 32 feet (over 10 meters). And why the water is not absorbed to such a height, they could not explain. The Duke asked the great Italian scientist Galileo Galilei to sort it out. Although the scientist was already old and sick and could not do experiments, he nevertheless suggested that the solution to the issue lies in determining the weight of air and its pressure on the water surface of the lake. Galileo's student Evangelista Torricelli took up the task of resolving this issue. To test the hypothesis of his teacher, he conducted his famous experiment. A glass tube 1 m long, sealed at one end, was completely filled with mercury, and tightly closing the open end of the tube, he turned it over with this end into a cup with mercury. Some of the mercury spilled out of the tube, some remained. An airless space formed above the mercury. The atmosphere puts pressure on the mercury in the cup, the mercury in the tube also puts pressure on the mercury in the cup, since equilibrium has been established, these pressures are equal. To calculate the pressure of mercury in a tube means to calculate the pressure of the atmosphere. If atmospheric pressure rises or falls, then the column of mercury in the tube rises or falls accordingly. This is how the unit of measurement of atmospheric pressure appeared - mm. rt. Art. - millimeter of mercury. Watching the level of mercury in the tube, Torricelli noticed that the level changes, which means that it is not constant and depends on changes in the weather. If the pressure rises, the weather will be good: cold in winter, hot in summer. If the pressure drops sharply, it means that clouds are expected to appear and the air is saturated with moisture. The Torricelli tube with a ruler attached is the first instrument for measuring atmospheric pressure - a mercury barometer. (Attachment 1)

Created barometers and other scientists: Robert Hooke, Robert Boyle, Emile Marriott. Water barometers were designed by the French scientist Blaise Pascal and the German burgomaster of the city of Magdeburg Otto von Guericke. The height of such a barometer was more than 10 meters.

Different units are used to measure pressure: mm of mercury, physical atmospheres, in the SI system - Pascals.

Relationship between weather and barometric pressure

In Jules Verne's novel The Fifteen-Year-Old Captain, the description of how to understand the readings of a barometer interested me.

“Captain Gul, a good meteorologist, taught him to read the barometer. We will briefly describe how to use this wonderful device.

  1. When, after a long period of good weather, the barometer begins to fall sharply and continuously, it is a sure sign of rain. However, if the weather has been good for a very long time, then the mercury column can drop for two or three days, and only after that there will be any noticeable changes in the atmosphere. In such cases, the more time elapsed between the beginning of the fall of the mercury column and the beginning of the rains, the longer the rainy weather will last.
  2. On the other hand, if during a long rainy period the barometer begins to rise slowly but steadily, good weather can be predicted with certainty. And the good weather will last the longer, the more time has passed between the beginning of the rise of the mercury column and the first clear day.
  3. In both cases, the weather change that occurred immediately after the rise or fall of the mercury column is kept for a very short time.
  4. If the barometer slowly but steadily rises for two or three days or longer, this portends good weather, even if all these days it rains without ceasing, and vice versa. But if the barometer rises slowly on rainy days, and immediately begins to fall when good weather sets in, the good weather will not last very long, and vice versa
  5. In spring and autumn, a sharp drop in the barometer portends windy weather. In summer, in extreme heat, it predicts a thunderstorm. In winter, especially after prolonged frosts, a rapid drop in the mercury column indicates an upcoming change in wind direction, accompanied by a thaw and rain. On the contrary, an increase in the mercury column during prolonged frosts portends snowfall.
  6. Frequent fluctuations in the level of the mercury column, either rising or falling, should by no means be considered as a sign of a long approach; period of dry or rainy weather. Only a gradual and slow fall or rise in the mercury column heralds the onset of a long period of stable weather.
  7. When at the end of autumn, after a long period of winds and rains, the barometer begins to rise, this heralds the north wind in the onset of frost.

Here are the general conclusions that can be drawn from the readings of this valuable instrument. Dick Sand was very good at understanding the predictions of the barometer and was convinced many times how correct they were. Every day he consulted his barometer so as not to be taken by surprise by the change in the weather.

I made observations of weather changes and atmospheric pressure. And I was convinced that this dependence exists.

the date

Temperature,°С

Precipitation,

Atmospheric pressure, mm Hg

Cloudiness

Mainly cloudy

Mainly cloudy

Mainly cloudy

Mainly cloudy

Mainly cloudy

Mainly cloudy

Mainly cloudy

Atmospheric pressure instruments

For scientific and everyday purposes, you need to be able to measure atmospheric pressure. For this, there are special devices - barometers. Normal atmospheric pressure is the pressure at sea level at 15°C. It is equal to 760 mm Hg. Art. We know that with a change in altitude of 12 meters, atmospheric pressure changes by 1 mmHg. Art. Moreover, with an increase in altitude, atmospheric pressure decreases, and with a decrease, it increases.

The modern barometer is made liquid-free. It's called an aneroid barometer. Metal barometers are less accurate, but not as bulky and fragile.

is a very sensitive instrument. For example, going up to the last floor of a nine-story building, due to the difference in atmospheric pressure at different heights, we will find a decrease in atmospheric pressure by 2-3 mm Hg. Art.


A barometer can be used to determine the altitude of an aircraft. Such a barometer is called a barometric altimeter or altimeter. The idea of ​​Pascal's experiment formed the basis for the design of the altimeter. It determines the height of the rise above sea level from changes in atmospheric pressure.

When observing the weather in meteorology, if it is necessary to register fluctuations in atmospheric pressure over a certain period of time, they use a recording device - barograph.


(Storm Glass) (stormglass, netherl. storm- "storm" and glass- “glass”) is a chemical or crystalline barometer, consisting of a glass flask or ampoule filled with an alcohol solution in which camphor, ammonia and potassium nitrate are dissolved in certain proportions.


This chemical barometer was actively used during his sea voyages by the English hydrographer and meteorologist, Vice Admiral Robert Fitzroy, who carefully described the behavior of the barometer, this description is still used. Therefore, stormglass is also called the "Fitzroy Barometer". In 1831–36, Fitzroy led an oceanographic expedition aboard the Beagle, which included Charles Darwin.

The barometer works as follows. The flask is hermetically sealed, but, nevertheless, the birth and disappearance of crystals constantly occurs in it. Depending on the upcoming weather changes, crystals of various shapes form in the liquid. Stormglass is so sensitive that it can predict a sudden change in the weather 10 minutes in advance. The principle of operation has not received a complete scientific explanation. The barometer works better when near a window, especially in reinforced concrete houses, probably in this case the barometer is not so shielded.


Baroscope- a device for monitoring changes in atmospheric pressure. You can make a baroscope with your own hands. The following equipment is required to make a baroscope: 0.5 liter glass jar.


  1. A piece of film from a balloon.
  2. rubber ring.
  3. Light arrow made of straw.
  4. Arrow wire.
  5. Vertical scale.
  6. Instrument case.

Dependence of liquid pressure on the height of the liquid column in liquid barometers

When atmospheric pressure changes in liquid barometers, the height of the liquid column (water or mercury) changes: when the pressure decreases, it decreases, and when it increases, it increases. This means that there is a dependence of the height of the liquid column on atmospheric pressure. But the liquid itself presses on the bottom and walls of the vessel.

The French scientist B. Pascal in the middle of the 17th century empirically established a law called Pascal's law:

Pressure in a liquid or gas is transmitted equally in all directions and does not depend on the orientation of the area on which it acts.

To illustrate Pascal's law, the figure shows a small rectangular prism immersed in a liquid. If we assume that the density of the material of the prism is equal to the density of the liquid, then the prism must be in a state of indifferent equilibrium in the liquid. This means that the pressure forces acting on the edges of the prism must be balanced. This will happen only if the pressures, i.e., the forces acting per unit area of ​​the surface of each face, are the same: p 1 = p 2 = p 3 = p.


The pressure of the liquid on the bottom or side walls of the vessel depends on the height of the liquid column. Force of pressure on the bottom of a cylindrical vessel of height h and base area S equal to the weight of the liquid column mg, where m = ρ ghS is the mass of the liquid in the vessel, ρ is the density of the liquid. Hence p = ρ ghS / S

The same pressure at depth h in accordance with Pascal's law, the liquid also exerts on the side walls of the vessel. Liquid column pressure ρ gh called hydrostatic pressure.

In many devices that we encounter in life, the laws of liquid and gas pressure are used: communicating vessels, plumbing, hydraulic press, sluices, fountains, artesian wells, etc.

Conclusion

Atmospheric pressure is measured in order to be more likely to predict a possible change in the weather. There is a direct relationship between pressure changes and weather changes. An increase or decrease in atmospheric pressure can, with some probability, be a sign of a change in the weather. You need to know: if the pressure drops, then cloudy, rainy weather is expected, if it rises - dry weather, with a cold snap in winter. If the pressure drops very sharply, serious bad weather is possible: a storm, a severe thunderstorm or a storm.

Even in ancient times, doctors wrote about the effect of weather on the human body. In Tibetan medicine there is a mention: "pain in the joints increases in rainy time and during periods of high winds." The famous alchemist, physician Paracelsus noted: "He who has studied winds, lightning and weather knows the origin of diseases."

In order for a person to be comfortable, atmospheric pressure should be equal to 760 mm. rt. Art. If atmospheric pressure deviates, even by 10 mm, in one direction or another, a person feels uncomfortable and this may affect his state of health. Adverse phenomena are observed during changes in atmospheric pressure - increase (compression) and especially its decrease (decompression) to normal. The slower the change in pressure occurs, the better and without adverse consequences the human body adapts to it.

Approximately one third of the population of our planet reacts sensitively to changes in the environment. Most of all, human well-being is affected by atmospheric pressure - the attraction of air masses to the Earth. What atmospheric pressure is considered normal for a person depends on the area in which he stays most of the time. Everyone will feel comfortable in the conditions familiar to him.

What is atmospheric pressure

The planet is surrounded by an air mass, which, under the influence of gravity, presses on any object, including the human body. The force is called atmospheric pressure. A column of air weighing approximately 100,000 kg presses on each square meter. Atmospheric pressure is measured with a special device - a barometer. It is measured in pascals, millimeters of mercury, millibars, hectopascals, atmospheres.

The normal atmospheric pressure is 760 mm Hg. Art., or 101 325 Pa. The discovery of the phenomenon belongs to the famous physicist Blaise Pascal. The scientist formulated the law: at the same distance from the center of the earth (does not matter, in the air, at the bottom of the reservoir), the absolute pressure will be the same. He was the first to propose measuring heights by barometric equalization.

Atmospheric pressure norms by region

It is impossible to find out what atmospheric pressure is considered normal for a healthy person - there is no definite answer. The impact varies across regions of the world. Within a relatively small area, this value can vary markedly. For example, in Central Asia, slightly elevated figures are considered standard (average 715-730 mm Hg). For central Russia, normal atmospheric pressure is 730-770 mm Hg. Art.

The indicators are related to the elevation of the surface above sea level, wind direction, humidity and ambient temperature. Warm air weighs less than cold air. Over an area with elevated temperature or humidity, the compression of the atmosphere is always less. People living in high mountain areas are not sensitive to such barometer readings. Their body was formed in these conditions, and all organs underwent appropriate adaptation.

How pressure affects people

The ideal value is 760 mm Hg. Art. What awaits when the mercury column fluctuates:

  1. A change in optimal performance (up to 10 mm/h) already leads to a deterioration in well-being.
  2. With a sharp increase, decrease (on average by 1 mm / h), even in healthy people, there is a significant deterioration in well-being. There is a headache, nausea, loss of working capacity.

Meteorological dependence

Human sensitivity to weather conditions - wind changes, geomagnetic storms - is called meteorological dependence. The influence of atmospheric pressure on is not yet fully understood. It is known that when weather conditions change, internal tension is created inside the vessels and cavities of the body. Meteorological dependence can be expressed:

  • irritability;
  • pains of various localization;
  • exacerbation of chronic diseases;
  • general deterioration of well-being;
  • vascular problems.

In most cases, weather dependence affects people with the following diseases:

  • respiratory diseases;
  • hypo- and hypertension.

Response to high blood pressure

A decrease in the barometer by at least 10 units (770 mm Hg and below) has a negative impact on health. People with long-standing diseases of the cardiovascular and digestive systems are especially affected by weather changes. Doctors on such days recommend reducing physical activity, being less on the street, and not abusing junk food and alcohol. Among the main reactions:

  • feeling of congestion in the ear canals;
  • decrease in the number of leukocytes in the blood;
  • decreased activity of intestinal motility;
  • violation of the functionality of the cardiovascular system;
  • poor ability to concentrate.

Pressure (atmospheric) is a physical quantity expressing the force with which air masses press on the earth and everything that is on it. For each region, the indicators of the mercury column are different, since they are influenced by altitude, air humidity and temperature of air masses.

The human body adapts to the pressure values ​​in the living climatic zone. If there is a change in the indicator up or down (moving to another region, changing weather, traveling to the mountains), then deviations from the norm can cause a disturbance in well-being.

The earth is surrounded by an atmosphere, which consists of several layers and performs protective functions.(protects from harmful radiation, maintains the desired composition in the air, and also keeps all living and non-living substances on the planet by applying pressure).

To determine the value of atmospheric pressure, several units are used (mm Hg, Pascals, millibars). The essence of these indicators is to display the magnitude of the pressure exerted by the atmosphere on a certain area of ​​the surface. A person does not feel atmospheric pressure (at normal levels), since it is balanced by the fluid inside the body.

Atmospheric pressure standards in different regions of Russia

The pressure of the mercury column (the norm depends on the climatic zone) varies from the region where the indicator is measured. A person adapts to the value where he lives. Therefore, when you change your place of residence with other climatic conditions, there is often a deterioration in well-being.

Atmospheric pressure indicators in mm Hg. Art. in large regions of Russia:

Region names Average indicators for the year Maximum deviations
Izhevsk747 753
Leningradsky755 762
Moscow748 755
Permian745 751
Seaside755 766
Rostov741 748
Samara753 760
Sverdlovsk738 755
Tula747 755
Tyumen771 775
Chelyabinsk741 756
Yaroslavsky736 758

Depending on the season of the year, the pressure indicator may change up or down.

Variability of air pressure depending on the height of the relief and other conditions

When measuring the pressure indicator, the influence of the main factors should be taken into account:

  • height above sea level. When you are at the same point according to geographical parameters, but at different heights, the pressure value will change in the following directions - when rising above sea level, the pressure will decrease, and when lowered, it will increase;
  • temperature indicator. When the temperature is above 0 degrees, atmospheric pressure will decrease. At temperatures below 0 degrees, atmospheric pressure will increase;
  • humidity level. The increased liquid content in the air causes an increase in pressure. In dry weather, the pressure indicator drops.

The article provides the norm of the pressure of the mercury column.

Therefore, in the summer at night (when the temperature drops and humidity increases), the pressure indicator increases. The main reason for the change in indicators is the change in air density from the influence of these parameters.

Normal human air column pressure in mmHg and pascals

The pressure of the mercury column (the norm is measured at sea level in Paris at an air temperature of 15 degrees) in 760 mmHg Art. or 101.3 kPa is the standard of a normal indicator. But this value is conditional when comparing its impact on the human condition. Since the body adapts to the indicator that prevails during the year in the region of human residence.

The effect of changes in atmospheric pressure on people

The human body adapts to the pressure indicator that prevails in a given climatic zone. As a result, systems and organs function in a normal rhythm.

But when the value changes, a restructuring occurs in the body, which is accompanied by the following deviations:

  • headaches in the temples, dizziness and fainting;
  • rapid decline in strength;
  • increased irritability due to headaches and fatigue;
  • depression or anxiety for no reason;
  • deterioration in breathing (lack of air);
  • violation of the rhythm of heart contractions and pain in the region of the heart;
  • decrease / increase in blood pressure;
  • deterioration of vision and “flies” before the eyes due to increased intraocular pressure;
  • violation of blood circulation, accompanied by numbness of the limbs;
  • pain in the joints. Caused by impaired blood supply;
  • nausea and loss of appetite;
  • noise and buzzing in the ears;
  • violation of the activity of the digestive tract;
  • deterioration in attention;
  • drowsiness.

Deterioration of well-being is noted with changes in atmospheric pressure from 5 units.

Daily fluctuations of 1-2 divisions do not affect the functioning of the body. Changes develop as a result of a violation of the movement of fluid in the body, which leads to a malfunction of all systems and a slowdown in metabolism. If these deviations in the body occur in a person even with small changes in the pressure indicator and regularly, then meteorological dependence is diagnosed.

At-risk groups

Pressure (atmospheric) can cause disturbance even in healthy people if the mercury column rises or falls by more than 3 bars within 1-3 hours. After the return of atmospheric pressure to normal, the state of health stabilizes.

The diagnosis of meteorological dependence is diagnosed more often in the following groups of people:

  • men and women of advanced age. Their body can no longer quickly adapt to changes in atmospheric pressure;
  • women during childbearing. During this period, the forces of the body are aimed at maintaining pregnancy and developing the fetus. As a result, pregnant women feel even small pressure drops;
  • children up to 3-5 years old. Their body is just learning to respond to weather changes;
  • teenagers during the restructuring of hormones. During this period, the body is sensitive not only to pressure fluctuations, the psycho-emotional balance is disturbed and the immune system is weakened;
  • climax period. The body again undergoes hormonal changes and is sensitive to any changes inside and out;
  • people with kidney disease. This disease causes a violation of the water composition in the body, which causes increased sensitivity to pressure fluctuations;
  • allergies and asthmatics. Meteorological dependence is caused by a decrease in immunity;
  • patients with diseases of the cardiovascular system and suffering from changes in blood pressure;
  • people with chronic pathologies of the musculoskeletal system;
  • patients with psychological disorders;
  • people with chronic ENT diseases.

People living in large cities with poor environmental conditions are more susceptible to pressure drops than residents of rural areas.

Symptoms of disorders of well-being

The pressure of the mercury column (the norm for each person is individual) can be increased or decreased, which causes different symptoms in weather-dependent people.

Description of signs depending on the change in the pressure indicator:

With an anticyclone. The weather phenomenon is characterized by a change in normal atmospheric pressure to increased. During a cyclone, the atmospheric pressure changes from normal to low.
Pain in the region of the heartThere is a lack of oxygen, accompanied by shortness of breath and the release of red blood cells (the phenomenon is dangerous for the formation of blood clots)
Increased heart rateThe number of heartbeats increases, but the force of impact decreases
Severe headache with pulse sensation in the temples, dizzinessHeadaches may be unbearable
Increased fatigue and general malaiseRapid fatigue and general weakness (feeling of "cotton legs")
A rush of blood to the face, which causes a feeling of heat and rednessDeterioration in the quality of vision
An increase in blood pressure, may be accompanied by nosebleedsSensation of noise and buzzing in the ears
Decrease in the number of leukocytes in the blood, which is dangerous for colds and other infectious diseases or exacerbation of chronic pathologiesExacerbation of joint diseases and numbness of the extremities
Increase in perspirationLowering blood pressure
Feeling ringing in the earsIncreased intracranial pressure
Loss of sharpness of visionViolation of the activity of the digestive tract, accompanied by flatulence
Bowel dysfunction (constipation)The appearance of swelling of the limbs

With a change in pressure in any direction, an exacerbation of chronic pathologies occurs.

health hazard

A change in atmospheric pressure is dangerous for weather-sensitive people, as well as a sharp change in it (quick diving to depth, climbing mountains or a sharp increase / decrease in pressure) for ordinary people.

Possible complications from fluctuations in atmospheric pressure:

  • violation of psychological balance in an irreversible direction (schizophrenia, depression, psychosis);
  • development of a stroke due to increased intracranial pressure;
  • the development of a heart attack in people with heart pathologies;
  • irreversible mental impairment due to lack of oxygen;
  • the development of asthma due to impaired oxygen metabolism and bronchial activity;
  • the formation of blood clots with subsequent blockage of blood vessels;
  • as a result of a decrease in immunity, infection with a dangerous infection with the development of subsequent complications;
  • deterioration of the condition of blood vessels with the likelihood of developing varicose veins or their rupture;
  • irreversible changes in the quality of vision and hearing. Perhaps to complete blindness and deafness.

Fainting is also dangerous, since the result of a fall from loss of consciousness can be fatal.

How to protect yourself from pressure drops for weather dependent people?

The pressure of the mercury column (the normal indicator can abruptly change to increased or decreased several times during the day) cannot be adjusted, therefore people who depend on weather conditions are advised to adhere to the following rules:

  • be examined by a specialist. Examination by a doctor will reveal additional causes of the body's sensitivity to changes in atmospheric pressure (hidden chronic pathologies, hormonal imbalance, or a general weakening of the immune system);
  • undergo treatment. Timely stop the exacerbation of chronic diseases under the supervision of a specialist;
  • weather forecast tracking or purchase a home barometer. This method will allow you to prepare in advance for the approaching atmospheric pressure drops and take preventive measures;
  • provide a good night's rest. Night sleep should be at least 8 hours. It is also recommended to get up no later than 7 am and go to bed before 10 am. Good sleep will allow the body to fully recover and it is easier to endure a decrease / increase in pressure;
  • follow a nutritious diet. Food should be varied and contain enough vitamins and minerals. Good nutrition will strengthen the immune system and respond less to fluctuations in atmospheric pressure. Also, heavy and junk food should be excluded from the menu, do not overeat before going to bed and avoid long breaks between meals. This will avoid the development of pathologies in the digestive tract or exacerbation of chronic diseases that contribute to a decrease in immunity;
  • take daily walks outdoors (any weather). Fresh air normalizes metabolic processes in the body, increases the amount of oxygen in the blood and strengthens the immune system;
  • perform daily physical activity. In the presence of diseases that limit physical activity, a set of exercises is compiled in the exercise therapy room under the supervision of a specialist. Classes allow you to normalize the activity of the cardiovascular system, activate blood circulation and the functioning of the joints. As a result, the symptoms from fluctuations in atmospheric pressure will be less pronounced;
  • adjust the schedule. If possible, then for the duration of the cyclone or anticyclone, postpone physical and mental work and devote more time to rest;
  • take a contrast shower in the morning. The procedure allows you to normalize the state of blood vessels, activates metabolic processes and strengthens the immune system;
  • use vitamin complexes and immunomodulators. These drugs allow you to further activate the body's defenses. The funds are especially recommended for busy people who do not have the opportunity to take daily walks, physical activity and other methods to strengthen immunity;
  • to refuse from bad habits. Nicotine and alcohol have a negative state on the vessels, organs of the gastrointestinal tract and exacerbate the deterioration during the period of atmospheric pressure drops;
  • taking medication. In the presence of chronic diseases, prepare the necessary medicines (ointments for pain in the joints, pills for headaches or means to lower / increase pressure). The type of drugs depends on the type of disease, and are prescribed by a doctor;
  • take sedatives. During the period of pressure fluctuations, it is required to take sedative medications and drink soothing herbal decoctions. They are involved in the normalization of pressure, eliminate nervous strain and help relieve symptoms from pressure drops.

Additionally (after consulting a doctor), you can pre-purchase the following medicines, prescribed for an increase / decrease in atmospheric pressure.

With an anticyclone When the cyclone
For headache reliefParacetamolPainkillers and tonicscaffetamin
AnalginAskofen
IbuprofenCitramon
To normalize the activity of nerve cellsPersenTo normalize pressureHeptamine
SedaristonApilak
NovopassitDopamine
To normalize the activity of the jointsVoltaren gelTo normalize breathingKetoprofen
Fastum gelIntal
Nurofen gelCromolyn

The normal indicator of pressure is 760 mm Hg. Art. But depending on the climatic zone, the value changes up or down. A person adapts to the indicator that prevails in the region of residence. Importantly, a sharp increase or decrease in the mercury column is the main cause of sudden changes in blood pressure.

Video about atmospheric pressure and its effect on humans

How weather affects a person:

A fragment of the program "Live healthy" about pressure and weather: