What is Altimeter|Definition and function of Altimeter| What is an altimeter used for?
An instrument used to measure elevation or height above a reference point, usually the Earth's surface. This is done by measuring atmospheric pressure, which decreases with increasing altitude. Commonly found in aircraft, altimeters help pilots determine their current altitude above sea level, aiding navigation and maintaining a safe flight altitude. It is also used in various other applications, such as hiking, mountaineering, and meteorology, to determine altitude above a specific reference point.
Definition and function of Altimeter
An altimeter measures elevation or height above a reference point, usually sea level. It is based on the principle that air pressure decreases as altitude increases. This is how it works:
1. Atmospheric pressure:-
The altimeter is based on atmospheric pressure, which decreases with increasing altitude due to the thinner air at higher altitudes.
2. Reference pressure:-
To provide accurate altitude readings, the altimeter is set to a reference pressure, which is often 1013.25 hectopascals (hPa) or 29.92 inches of mercury at sea level.
3. Pressure Sensor:-
Inside the altimeter there is a pressure sensor that measures the current atmospheric pressure.
4. Altimeter Calculation:-
Altimetry calculates your altitude by comparing the current atmospheric pressure to a reference pressure. A standard lapse rate of pressure change with height is considered.
5.Calibration:-
The altimeter should be calibrated according to the reference pressure at your current location. This calibration ensures that the altimeter reads zero when you are at the reference altitude.
6. Performance:-
The calculated altitude is displayed on the altimeter dial or screen, usually in feet or meters above sea level.
Keep in mind that the altimeter may require periodic adjustment as barometric pressure changes with weather conditions. Pilots and hikers often adjust their altimeters according to local reference pressure to obtain more accurate readings
Altimeter is used to measure:-
Altimeters are used to measure altitude, which is the height of an object or location above a specific reference point, often measured in feet or meters above sea level. This device is commonly used in aviation, hiking and other activities where knowing the altitude is important.
Altimeter Watch :-
An altimeter watch is a watch equipped with an altimeter function that measures altitude or elevation. It is commonly used by outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, climbers, and pilots to track its vertical position above sea level. These watches often come with additional features like barometer, compass, and GPS to provide comprehensive outdoor information. Brands like Suunto, Garmin, and Casio make popular altimeter watches.
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