Aneroid Barometer

Definition

An aneroid barometer is a device used to measure atmospheric pressure without the use of liquid, utilizing a small, flexible metal capsule that expands or contracts based on the surrounding air pressure. This type of barometer is highly portable and often used in meteorological instruments for both surface and upper-air observations. Its readings can help predict weather changes, making it an essential tool in atmospheric science.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Aneroid barometers are commonly used in altimeters for aircraft and hiking equipment since they provide accurate readings of atmospheric pressure changes related to altitude.
2. These devices can be sensitive to temperature changes, which can affect their accuracy if not calibrated properly.
3. Aneroid barometers do not contain any liquid, making them more durable and less likely to break compared to mercury barometers.
4. They typically feature a dial with a needle indicating the pressure measurement, allowing for easy reading and interpretation.
5. Regular calibration against known pressure standards is important to ensure the accuracy of an aneroid barometer's readings.

Review Questions

• How does an aneroid barometer differ from a mercury barometer in terms of design and function?
  • An aneroid barometer uses a flexible metal capsule that expands or contracts with changes in atmospheric pressure, while a mercury barometer measures pressure by the height of mercury in a glass tube. The absence of liquid in an aneroid barometer makes it more portable and less fragile than its mercury counterpart. Both devices measure atmospheric pressure but have different mechanisms and practical applications.
• Discuss how aneroid barometers are utilized in weather prediction and what specific atmospheric changes they can indicate.
  • Aneroid barometers are critical tools in weather prediction as they provide real-time measurements of atmospheric pressure, which are essential for identifying trends associated with weather changes. A drop in pressure typically signals stormy weather, while rising pressure suggests clear skies. Meteorologists rely on these readings alongside other data to make accurate forecasts, demonstrating their role in understanding atmospheric behavior.
• Evaluate the importance of proper calibration and environmental considerations when using aneroid barometers for meteorological measurements.
  • Proper calibration of aneroid barometers is vital to ensure accurate atmospheric pressure readings since inaccuracies can lead to misleading weather predictions. Environmental factors such as temperature fluctuations can affect the sensitivity and performance of these devices, potentially skewing results. By regularly calibrating and considering environmental influences, meteorologists can maintain reliability in their observations and enhance their understanding of weather patterns.

Related terms

Barometric Pressure: The pressure exerted by the weight of the atmosphere, usually measured in millibars or inches of mercury.

Mercury Barometer: A type of barometer that measures atmospheric pressure by the height of mercury in a glass tube, serving as a traditional comparison to the aneroid barometer.

Altitude: The height of an object or point in relation to sea level, which can be inferred from changes in atmospheric pressure readings.