Barometric

Barometric is an adjective relating to barometers or to atmospheric pressure. In meteorology and related fields, barometric measurements are used to monitor and predict weather, determine altitude, and study air masses. The term also appears in phrases such as barometric pressure, barometric altitude, and barometric chart.

Barometers are instruments that measure atmospheric pressure. The classic mercury barometer uses a column of mercury whose height balances the air pressure, while the aneroid barometer uses a sealed, flexible metal chamber that expands and contracts with pressure changes. Modern devices often rely on electronic sensors and can be integrated into weather stations and smartphones.

Barometric pressure is typically expressed in pascals (Pa) or hectopascals (hPa); historically millibars were common. Sea-level standard pressure is about 1013.25 hPa. Rising barometric pressure generally accompanies improving weather; falling pressure can indicate approaching storms. In aviation and climbing, barometric altimeters convert changes in barometric pressure into altitude. In physics, barometry informs studies of the atmosphere and fluid statics.

Origin: The barometer was invented in the 17th century by Evangelista Torricelli; the term derives from Greek baros “weight” and metron “measure.” The word barometric describes anything related to these pressure measurements.