Why doesn't a barometer with vacuum get crushed by the atmosphere?

[meBigGuy]

Atmospheric pressure exerts a 14.7 pounds per square inch at sea level. Making 1 sq inch of glass withstand 14.7 pounds isn't very hard (Or 1/4 inch per side = less than 1 lb)

Say you have 2 shallow cylinders of 1 foot diameter = 113 square inches with a vacuum between them. That means it will take 113x14.7 = 1661 lbs to separate them.

 

[tarekatpf]

Yes. There are good mathematical models of materials and structures but, from what you say about your technical knowledge, you may find them hard to follow. Perhaps, if you googled terms like ' strength of a beam' you could see if you find the maths in that example accessible.
This is non-trivial stuff and needs to be approached from basic principles and not jumped into, half way through.

Thank you very much for your suggestions.

 

[tarekatpf]

Atmospheric pressure exerts a 14.7 pounds per square inch at sea level. Making 1 sq inch of glass withstand 14.7 pounds isn't very hard (Or 1/4 inch per side = less than 1 lb)

Say you have 2 shallow cylinders of 1 foot diameter = 113 square inches with a vacuum between them. That means it will take 113x14.7 = 1661 lbs to separate them.

Thank you very much. That was an excellent use of mathematics.