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Air Pressure and the Atmosphere — Reading Comprehension

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MS-PS2-2

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This passage for grades 6-8 explores the concept of air pressure in the atmosphere, directly aligning with NGSS MS-PS2-2 standards. Students will discover how atmospheric pressure results from the weight of air above us, how it is measured with barometers, and why it decreases as altitude increases. The passage examines real-world effects such as breathing at high altitudes, airplane cabin pressure, and the role of air pressure in weather patterns. It provides scientific explanations, data, and examples, and integrates key academic vocabulary in context. Activities include multiple choice questions, writing prompts, and graphic organizers to deepen understanding. Audio integration supports accessibility for all learners. This resource is ideal for middle school classrooms seeking to build scientific literacy on core physical science concepts.

CONTENT PREVIEW

air-pressure-3 — Air pressure's role in weather patterns

Air pressure is a force that affects life on Earth every day. At sea level, the weight of the air above us creates an average pressure of about 101,325 Pascals, or 1 atmosphere (atm). This pressure is strong enough to support a column of mercury about 76 centimeters tall in a barometer. Air pressure is a key factor in weather, breathing, and many technologies. Scientists study atmospheric pressure to understand how our planet's systems operate and interact.

How Does Air Pressure Work?
The atmosphere is a layer of gases, mostly nitrogen and oxygen, that surrounds Earth. Gravity pulls these gases toward the planet’s surface, giving them weight. This weight presses down, creating pressure on everything below. As you go higher in altitude, such as climbing a mountain or flying in an airplane, there is less air above you. This means the pressure decreases with altitude. At 5,000 meters above sea level, the air pressure drops to about half of what it is at sea level. The relationship between altitude and pressure is predictable and can be measured using a barometer, a device invented in the 1600s that uses mercury or other fluids to show changes in air pressure.

Applications and Effects of Air Pressure
Changes in air pressure have important effects on living things and the environment. For example, at high altitude, lower air pressure means there is less oxygen in each breath, which can make breathing difficult. This is why climbers and athletes sometimes train at high elevations to help their bodies adapt. In airplanes, cabins are pressurized to keep passengers comfortable and safe. Air pressure also plays a big role in weather patterns. When air pressure drops quickly, it often signals that a storm or bad weather is coming. Meteorologists use barometers to track these changes and help predict the weather. The movement of air from areas of high pressure to low pressure creates wind, another important part of Earth’s systems.

Connecting Air Pressure to Broader Science
Understanding air pressure helps scientists explain phenomena like weather, wind, and even how our lungs function. Changes in pressure can cause objects to expand or contract, which is why your ears pop during takeoff in an airplane. Pressure differences are also used in many technologies, such as vacuum cleaners and car engines. By studying the patterns and effects of air pressure, scientists can better understand our planet’s climate and help solve real-world problems.

Interesting Fact:
The highest recorded air pressure at sea level was 1085.7 millibars in Mongolia in 2001, while the lowest was 870 millibars during Typhoon Tip in 1979.

What creates air pressure on Earth's surface?

The weight of the air above usThe heat from the SunThe Earth's magnetic fieldThe movement of tectonic plates

What is the average air pressure at sea level?

101,325 Pascals76 Pascals1,000 meters200 millibars

Which tool do scientists use to measure air pressure?

BarometerThermometerAltimeterSeismograph

What happens to air pressure as altitude increases?

It decreasesIt increasesIt stays the sameIt doubles

What does the word 'barometer' mean in the passage?

A tool for measuring air pressureA tool for measuring temperatureA device for measuring wind speedA machine for making oxygen

What is 'cabin pressure' in the context of the passage?

The air pressure inside an airplaneThe pressure of wind outsideThe force of gravity on the planetThe pressure of the ground

Why do climbers and athletes train at high altitudes?

To help their bodies adapt to lower oxygen levelsTo avoid stormsTo increase air pressureTo measure mercury

How does air pressure relate to weather patterns?

Changes in air pressure can signal storms or changes in weatherAir pressure only affects mountainsWeather does not depend on air pressureHigh air pressure always means rain

True or False: Wind is caused by air moving from high pressure to low pressure.

TrueFalse

True or False: Air pressure increases as you go higher in altitude.

TrueFalse