This image shows three common ways that atmospheric pressure is measured - using a mercurial barometer, an aneroid barometer or a barograph.
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Windows Original (Using images from FAA)

Barometer

A barometer is a weather instrument used to measure atmospheric pressure. There are two types of barometers used to do this: the mercury barometer and with an aneroid barometer The mercury barometer was invented in 1643. Mercury barometers can be used in a lab or a weather station, but is not easy to move! Because of this, scientists also use aneroid barometers, which are easier to move and can be easier to read. Electronic instruments can also be used to record the pressure of the air onto a computer. The image on this page shows what some different types of barometers look like.

Air pressure can be measured and recorded in many different units. Usually high pressure means the weather will be clear, and low pressure usually means the weather will be stormy.

Last modified June 11, 2010 by Becca Hatheway.

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