What is the equivalent of 1 atm in mmHg?

Prepare for the ASU BIO202 Human Anatomy and Physiology II Exam. Study with detailed questions and explanations. Master your exam material!

1 atmosphere (atm) is defined as the pressure exerted by the weight of the air in the Earth's atmosphere at sea level. This standard measurement can be expressed in various units, one of which is millimeters of mercury (mmHg).

The equivalent of 1 atm is specifically defined as 760 mmHg. This relationship originates from historical methods of measuring pressure using a mercury barometer, where 760 mmHg is the height of a column of mercury that is supported by atmospheric pressure at sea level. Therefore, the conversion factor is widely accepted and used in scientific contexts.

Understanding this conversion is essential in fields such as physiology, meteorology, and any sciences that deal with gas laws and pressure measurements, as it allows for accurate communication of pressure readings in various units.

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