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Density of Air
Density of Air
Density is a measure of mass. The formula for density is d = m/v, where d is the density, m is the
mass, and v is the volume. In this session, let us discuss the density of air, value of air density,
and factors affecting the density of air.
Table of Contents:
An object made from a comparatively dense material will have less volume than an object of
equal mass made from some less dense substance. The highest density known is of a neutron
star. A brick and a loaf of bread are about the same size, but a brick is heavier–it is denser.
Among metals, aluminium is less dense than iron. That’s why aeroplanes and some automobile
parts are made from aluminium. For the same volume of material, one metal weighs less than
another. The density of a pure gold nugget on earth and moon would measure the same. But for
gases, because the molecules are free to move, the density can vary over a wide range. The air
density at the surface of the Earth would have a different density than air 50 kilometres above the
earth.
where:
T is the temperature
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Frequently Asked Questions on Density of Air
Q1
Which instrument is used to measure the air pressure?
Barometer is used to measure air pressure.
Q2
What causes wind?
Wind is caused by differences in atmospheric pressure. When a difference in atmospheric
pressure exists, air moves from the higher to the lower pressure area, resulting in winds of
various speeds blowing in different directions.
Q3
Where is the air density the highest?
The density of the air is highest near the ground (troposphere) and gets less and less as you rise
in altitude.
Q4
What is density and how is it measured?
Density is a measure of mass. The formula for density is d = m/v, where d is the density, m is the
mass, and v is the volume.
Q5
State true or false: The density of the air increases due to the addition of
water.
False. The density of the air reduces due to the addition of water.