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What Is Air Pressure? — Reading Comprehension

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This audio-integrated reading passage delves into the foundational concept of air pressure, aligning with the NGSS Disciplinary Core Idea of Physical Science (PS3.A: Definitions of Energy). The text explains how air pressure, the force exerted by the weight of air molecules, is a critical component of our physical world. It explores real-world applications of this principle, from how a straw works to the changes in pressure experienced at different altitudes. By defining key terms like "air molecules" and explaining the relationship between pressure and altitude, the passage provides a clear and accessible introduction to this scientific concept. It also touches on the connection between air pressure and weather systems, making the topic relevant and relatable. The passage incorporates keywords such as air pressure, atmospheric pressure, force of air, and molecules to enhance its SEO value and support students in grasping this fundamental physical concept. This resource is designed to support the understanding of how energy is stored in matter, specifically within the context of atmospheric dynamics.

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A glass filled with water, held upside down with a playing card underneath it, with arrows showing air pressure pushing up on the card. — Air pressure can be demonstrated by a simple cup of water and a card.

What Is Air Pressure?

Air is all around us—even though we can’t see it. The air that fills our atmosphere is made of billions of tiny molecules. Each molecule is so small, we can’t see it with our eyes. But together, these air molecules have weight. The weight of all this air creates something called air pressure. Air pressure is the force of air pushing down and around us from every direction.

Even though air feels like nothing, it’s actually pressing on everything all the time. Imagine living at the bottom of an invisible ocean of air. That’s what it’s like! The air above you pushes down because of gravity, and all the air around you pushes in from the sides too. But we don’t feel crushed. This is because the air inside our bodies pushes back, so the pressure is balanced.

You might have noticed air pressure in your daily life. For example, when you ride in an airplane or drive up a mountain, your ears might pop. That’s because the air pressure gets lower as you go up higher—there is less air above you pressing down. When you drink through a straw, you suck air out of the straw, lowering the pressure inside. The higher outside air pressure then pushes your drink up into your mouth. Balloons stay inflated because the air inside pushes outward against the balloon, while air outside pushes in.

Air pressure is important for weather, too. A barometer is a tool that measures air pressure. If the air pressure is high, it usually means sunny and clear weather. If the air pressure is low, clouds and storms may be coming. That’s why weather scientists pay close attention to air pressure every day.

You can see air pressure in action with fun experiments. Try crushing a can by heating it with a little water inside, then quickly cooling it in ice water. The sudden drop in air pressure inside the can lets the stronger outside air pressure crush it! Suction cups also work because air pressure outside the cup holds it tight to the wall.

Interesting Fact:
Mount Everest is so high that the air pressure at the top is only about a third as strong as at sea level!

What creates air pressure?

The weight of air moleculesSunshine and rainOnly strong windsGravity pulling water

What tool measures air pressure?

BarometerThermometerRulerCompass

Why do ears pop on mountains?

Air pressure changesRunning too fastIt's too coldSun is brighter

What happens when you suck on a straw?

Pressure inside straw lowersDrink freezesStraw fills with airCup gets smaller

What does high air pressure usually bring?

Sunny weatherHeavy rainSnowfallWind storms

Why don’t we feel crushed by air pressure?