Question

One atmospheric pressure is equal to 101325 Newton/square metre. That is around 10 tonnes of mass over 1 square metre area. How are we able to bear such a huge burden over our heads?

• A. Our internal pressure balances external pressure.
• B. We are used to this burden since we are experiencing it since birth.
• C. Atmospheric pressure is a hypothetical concept and it does not act in reality.
• D. Atmospheric pressure is balanced by gravity.

Answer 1

The correct option is A

Our internal pressure balances external pressure.

We have evolved in a way such that our internal pressure matches the atmospheric pressure, so we are in equilibrium. If we move to higher altitude where the external pressure diminishes, there is an imbalance in the equillibrium such that our internal pressure exceeds external pressure. This sometimes causes bleeding from ears and nose.