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How Barometers Predict Weather — Reading Comprehension

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This educational content features an engaging reading passage that explains 'How Barometers Predict Weather'. It delves into the science of air pressure and how this measurement helps us forecast changes in weather conditions. Students will learn about atmospheric pressure, high-pressure systems, and low-pressure systems, and how these concepts are crucial for understanding weather. Aligned with NGSS standard MS-ESS2-5, this resource supports the collection of data to provide evidence for how the complex interactions of air masses result in changes in weather. The passage is designed for a Grade 6 reading level, includes relevant SEO keywords, and is audio integrated for enhanced learning.

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Wide illustration showing atmospheric pressure, mercury and aneroid barometers, plus weather effects. Image Caption: Barometers measure air pressure changes to forecast weather. — Barometers measure air pressure changes to forecast weather.

Imagine the air all around you. It might seem light and invisible, but it actually has weight! This weight creates air pressure, also known as atmospheric pressure. Air pressure is the force exerted on a surface by the weight of the air above it. Just like a stack of books, the air above us presses down. When the amount of air above a location changes, so does the pressure. Weather scientists, often called meteorologists, use a special tool called a barometer to measure these changes in air pressure. Understanding how barometers work is key to predicting weather!

There are two main types of barometers. The mercury barometer, an older design, uses a column of mercury that rises or falls with changes in air pressure. A more common type today is the aneroid barometer. This device uses a sealed metal box, or capsule, that expands and contracts as air pressure changes. These tiny movements are then translated into needle movements on a dial, showing whether the pressure is rising or falling. It's a fantastic tool for weather prediction.

So, what do these changes in air pressure tell us about the weather? Generally, high-pressure systems are associated with clear, calm, and fair weather. When a barometer shows rising pressure, it often means that good weather is on its way or will continue. The air in a high-pressure system sinks, preventing clouds from forming and leading to sunny skies. This is why knowing about atmospheric pressure helps with understanding weather patterns.

On the other hand, low-pressure systems often bring stormy or cloudy weather. When a barometer shows falling pressure, it suggests that wet, windy, or unsettled weather is approaching. In a low-pressure system, air rises, cools, and forms clouds and precipitation. Therefore, a significant drop in air pressure can be a warning sign for upcoming rain or storms. By observing these changes in air pressure, barometers provide valuable clues for forecasting weather, helping us prepare for what's ahead.

Interesting Fact: The world record for the highest recorded air pressure was in Agata, Siberia, at 1083.8 millibars (32.01 inches of mercury) on December 31, 1968.

What is air pressure?

Weight of air aboveTemperature of airSpeed of windHumidity in air

What tool measures air pressure?

ThermometerAnemometerBarometerRain gauge

Which system often brings clear weather?

High-pressure systemLow-pressure systemStormy pressure systemFalling pressure system

What does falling pressure usually mean?

Sunny, clear skiesCalm, fair weatherWet, stormy weatherSteady, unchanging weather

What happens to air in a low-pressure system?

It sinks downwardsIt rises, forms cloudsIt stays stillIt gets colder

What does a rising barometer suggest?

Worsening weatherImproving weatherNo weather changeStrong winds only