How does the standard atmospheric pressure exhibited at sea level compare to the atmospheric pressure exhibited at the top of a tall mountain?

Question

aaronq · Answer

Pressure is defined as a force exerted on a certain area. Think about how depth in the ocean increases pressure. As you go further down, there is more water above you which is pulled down by gravity. Likewise, above water, there are gases that push down on things on the surface. The higher (further from the center of the earth) the less mass there is above you, thus less force and, equivalently, less pressure.
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