Atmospheric pressure underground?

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SUMMARY

To calculate the total pressure underground, one must sum the surface atmospheric pressure with the weight of the overlying soil. As depth increases, air pressure in mines or tunnels rises, similar to how it decreases with altitude. The pressure from the rock above is significantly greater than the air pressure, which is typically negligible in comparison. Therefore, the total pressure underground is primarily determined by the weight of the rock column above, with a standard atmospheric pressure of 14.7 psi added to this weight.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics principles related to pressure.
  • Familiarity with atmospheric pressure measurements.
  • Knowledge of geological concepts regarding soil and rock density.
  • Basic comprehension of hydrostatic pressure calculations.
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  • Research hydrostatic pressure calculations in geological contexts.
  • Explore the effects of depth on atmospheric pressure in mining operations.
  • Study the properties of different soil and rock types and their densities.
  • Learn about pressure measurement tools used in underground environments.
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Geologists, mining engineers, environmental scientists, and anyone involved in underground construction or excavation projects.

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As you go deeper underground, to calculate the total pressure at the subterranean point, would you sum the atmospheric weight plus the weight of the overlying soil? How does this work exactly? Thanks.
 
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Depends what you are trying to calculate.
The air pressure (in a mine or tunnel) will increase, just like it decreases when you go higher, you add the surface atmospheric pressure to the extra weight of the column of air between you and the surface.
The pressure in the rock underground is the weight of the rock column above you - you can probably ignore the air weight compared to the weight of rock.
 
Last edited:
Since the atmosphere doesn't penetrate the ground, you just add 14.7 to the pressure due to the weight of the earth.
 

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