Question

Which of the following graphs correctly represents the variation of pressure with height for the earth's atmosphere? Take $P_0$ as the pressure at ground level.

• A.
• B.
• C.
• D.

Answer 1

The correct option is C

The variation of pressure with height in the atmosphere is given as
$P=P_0{e}^{\left(-\frac{Mgh}{RT}\right)}$
So, the variation of pressure with height is exponential.
When $h\to 0$ , pressure $P\to P_0$
When $h\to \infty$ , pressure $P\to 0$
This behaviour is clearly shown by the graph in option (c).
Hence, option (c) is the correct answer.