Explain why atmospheric pressure decreases with increasing altitude. (3 marks)

Firstly, pressure is created by air molecules colliding with a surface. At an increased altitude there are fewer air molecules, and therefore a larger average distance between them. This means at this higher altitude, the number of collisions with a surface is decreased. This means the pressure is less at high altitude compared to the air pressure at the surface of Earth.

EB
Answered by Emily B. Physics tutor

15884 Views

See similar Physics GCSE tutors

Related Physics GCSE answers

All answers ▸

What is the difference between evaporation and boiling?


A boy with a mass of 50kg is sitting on a seesaw. He is sitting 2m from the pivot. He has a friend who weighs 40kg, how far away from the pivot must she sit to balance the seesaw? (gravitational accelleration (g) = 10m/s2)


Why are some electromagnetic waves harmful to humans?


How does electromagnetic induction produce a current?


We're here to help

contact us iconContact usWhatsapp logoMessage us on Whatsapptelephone icon+44 (0) 203 773 6020
Facebook logoInstagram logoLinkedIn logo

© MyTutorWeb Ltd 2013–2025

Terms & Conditions|Privacy Policy
Cookie Preferences