Barométricos

Barométricos refers to instruments and phenomena related to barometric pressure. The most common barometric instrument is the barometer, which measures atmospheric pressure. This pressure is the weight of the atmosphere pressing down on the Earth's surface.

Barometers were invented by Evangelista Torricelli in the 17th century. Early barometers were mercury barometers, which use a column of mercury in a glass tube to indicate pressure. A rise in the mercury column generally indicates increasing atmospheric pressure, often associated with fair weather. Conversely, a falling mercury column suggests decreasing pressure, which can signal approaching storms.

Modern barometers include aneroid barometers, which do not use liquid. These devices use a small, flexible, sealed metal box from which air has been removed. Changes in atmospheric pressure cause the box to expand or contract, and this movement is transmitted to a needle that indicates the pressure on a calibrated dial.

Barometric pressure is a key component in meteorology. Changes in pressure patterns are fundamental to understanding and forecasting weather. Low-pressure systems are often associated with clouds, precipitation, and storms, while high-pressure systems typically bring clear skies and calm conditions. Altitude also affects barometric pressure; pressure decreases as altitude increases because there is less atmosphere above. This principle is used in altimeters, which are essentially barometers calibrated to display altitude.