How Can I Use Actual Data to Calculate the Barometric Formula Correctly?

[seasnake]

I am trying to work with Equation Two from the Wiki page at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barometric_formula using the figures in the table provided on the page.

The problem is that the table does not contain values for all the variables such as for P and values for h (and perhaps other variables in the exponential power, namely L_b).

I would like to be able to calculate the formula using actual data. If someone can help me find actual data information for the formulas so I can understand how the formula works, I'd appreciate it. Website addresses explaining the equations way better than Wiki does would be appreciated if they aptly display the numbers used and show the mathematics.

I need help with is understanding the following:

1. is it possible (allowed) for P to be negative;
2. is h always larger, or smaller, than h_b;
3. what is the difference between h and h_b (I dont' quite understand what h_b is);
4. is L_b constant if M, R*, and L_b are defined as constants

 

[Valerie Park]

;5. what does the exponential power of the equation mean?To answer these questions, it is best to consult an expert in atmospheric sciences or meteorology, as they will be most familiar with the equations and concepts used in barometric formulas. Alternatively, you may be able to find some resources online that explain these concepts in greater detail.

 

[sir-pinski]

.

Hello,

I can understand your confusion and need for clarification on the barometric formulas. Let me try to address your questions one by one.

1. It is not possible for P (pressure) to be negative in the barometric formulas. Pressure is always a positive quantity and is usually measured in units of pascals (Pa).

2. The values for h (altitude) and h_b (base altitude) can vary depending on the location and conditions. In general, h_b is the altitude at which the pressure is measured and h is the altitude at which the formula is being applied. So, h can be larger or smaller than h_b depending on the specific situation.

3. h_b is the base altitude or reference altitude at which the pressure is measured. It is important to have a reference altitude because the pressure decreases with altitude and the barometric formulas take this into account. So, h_b is used as a reference point to calculate the pressure at different altitudes.

4. L_b is a constant in the barometric formulas and is also known as the scale height. It represents the rate at which pressure decreases with altitude. This value can vary depending on the location and conditions, but for a specific location it can be considered constant.

I would recommend looking for resources on atmospheric physics or meteorology to better understand the barometric formulas. Some good websites to start with are:

- https://www.weather.gov/media/epz/wxcalc/pressureAltitude.pdf
- https://www.metoffice.gov.uk/weather/learn-about/weather/how-weather-works/pressure
- https://www.grc.nasa.gov/www/k-12/airplane/atmosmet.html

These websites explain the equations in more detail and provide examples of how to use them with actual data. I hope this helps and feel free to ask any further questions if needed. Good luck with your calculations!