High School

What is the pressure at the bottom of the column of air referred to in the preceding question?

a. 100 kPa
b. 105 kPa
c. 110 kPa
d. 115 kPa
e. 120 kPa

Answer :

Final answer:

The pressure at the bottom of the column of air is essentially the atmospheric pressure at sea level, which averages 101 kPa or 1 atmosphere, as determined by the weight of the air above Earth's surface.

Explanation:

The pressure at the bottom of a column of air, as described in the background information, is determined by the weight of the air above it exerting force on the Earth's surface. Given that atmospheric pressure at sea level averages to 1.01 × 105 Pa (Pascals), which can also be expressed as 101 kPa, we can identify the correct answer based on this standard measurement.

Atmospheric pressure is fundamentally the force per unit area exerted by the weight of the air in the Earth's atmosphere. It's essential knowledge in understanding weather, flight, and various scientific principles. Given that 1 atmosphere (atm) is equal to 101,325 Pa (Pascals), this corresponds closely to the data provided, making 101 kPa the basis for atmospheric pressure at sea level and hence the best match for the pressure at the bottom of the column of air.