Atmospheric pressure at Earth's surface is approximately 14.7 pounds per square inch. Atmospheric pressure decreases by approxim
ately 16% for each mile increase in height above the surface. Write an exponential equation for the atmospheric pressure P (in pounds per square inch) x miles above Earth's surface. At what height (in miles) is the atmospheric pressure 11 pounds per square inch? Round to the nearest tenth.
The standard, or near-average, atmospheric pressure at sea level on the Earth is 1013.25 millibars, or about 14.7 pounds per square inch.
The gauge pressure in my automobile tires is a little more than twice that value. If you live at a higher altitude, the pressure will be lower since there is less air above weighing down upon you. The pressure also varies by relatively small amounts as high and low pressure systems move past.
