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Because it has a high density... meaning that the volume increase or decrease due to altitude change is can be viewed in a practical sized barometer. If water, which had a much lower density, was used instead of Mercury, the barometer must be at least 15m high.

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15y ago

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What element is used for barometers?

Mercury is commonly used in barometers due to its high density and ability to accurately measure air pressure. However, due to its toxicity, alternatives such as water, oil, or electronic sensors are often used now.


What element is a liquid metal used in barometers?

mercury


Which type of barometer is most commonly used today?

Mercury barometers and aneroid barometers are the most commonly used types today. Mercury barometers use a column of mercury to measure atmospheric pressure, while aneroid barometers use a small, flexible metal box to detect changes in pressure.


What instrument uses Mercury?

Historical, both thermometers and barometers have used mercury.


Why are barometers often more practical than mercury barometers?

They are more portable and can be used for airplane equipment


What are barometers made of?

Barometers are typically made of glass and metal components. The glass is used for the tube containing mercury or other fluid, while the metal is used for the frame or casing to hold the glass components in place. Some modern barometers may also use electronic sensors instead of traditional components.


Is a liquid metal used in barometers?

Science and industrial labs often use mercury filled barometers due to mercury's high density and low vapour pressure. This allows the barometers column of liquid to be less than 1 meter high (760 mm Hg=1 atmosphere). As an additional advantage the meniscus of the mercury is upwards at the center, unlike water, making accurate reading simpler. However mercury's toxic attributes make it hazardous if spilled, so mechanical diaphragm barometers are often used.


Why are mercury barometers no particle for use in altimeters?

Mercury barometers are not suitable for use in altimeters because the boiling point of mercury is relatively low, which can limit their accuracy in high-altitude applications where temperatures may drop significantly. In addition, mercury is a toxic substance, posing health and environmental risks if the barometer were to break at higher altitudes. Other alternatives like aneroid or electronic barometers are commonly used in altimeters instead.


What are the instruments used for measuring atmospheric pressure?

Instruments used for measuring atmospheric pressure include barometers, aneroid barometers, and electronic pressure sensors. Barometers measure pressure using a column of liquid (mercury or water) while aneroid barometers use a flexible metal capsule. Electronic pressure sensors use electronic components to capture pressure data.


URGENT why do you use mercury in barometers and not water?

Mercury is used in barometers because it has a high density, does not evaporate easily, and has a low thermal expansion. These properties make it ideal for creating a precise and stable measurement of atmospheric pressure. Water, in contrast, would evaporate easily and change density with temperature, making it less reliable for this purpose.


What is three uses for mercury?

Please refer to the related links for an article about the uses for mercury.


What is Mercury used in?

Mercury was commonly used in thermometers and barometers. However, because it is poisonous, people are trying to use it in less things now.