At sea level we are under 15.8 pounds of pressure per square inch of our body. This is the equivalent of a 16 pound bowling ball at every inch of our body. Describe why we are not overcome by the pressure of the atmosphere? What experiment in our course relates to this concept?
I'm not sure on this question. My gues is that the air inside our bodies so kind of balances out the pressure outside so we are not overcome by it.
I think it is 14.7 lbs per square inch at sea level and not 15.8 but I also think your guess is a good one.
Your guess is actually quite accurate! We do not feel overwhelmed or crushed by the atmospheric pressure because our bodies have adapted to it. The human body is an amazing machine that is capable of maintaining internal equilibrium despite external changes in pressure.
To understand why we are not overcome by the pressure of the atmosphere, let's consider the concept of pressure equalization. Our bodies are made up of various tissues, organs, and fluids, one of which is air. The air inside our lungs and other air-filled cavities, such as the sinuses and middle ears, creates a balance between the internal and external pressure.
When we breathe, air enters our lungs and fills the alveoli, tiny air sacs where oxygen and carbon dioxide exchange takes place. The pressure inside the alveoli matches the atmospheric pressure, allowing for smooth gas exchange.
Similarly, the air in our sinuses and middle ears also equilibrates with the atmospheric pressure through small openings. This equalization prevents any significant differences in pressure that could cause discomfort or damage to our bodies.
Additionally, our bodies are not solid and rigid structures, but rather composed of flexible tissues and fluids that can adjust and withstand external pressures. The body's circulatory and lymphatic systems also help distribute and balance internal pressure.
In terms of an experiment related to this concept, one of the most relevant is Boyle's Law. Boyle's Law describes the relationship between the pressure and volume of a gas at a constant temperature. An example experiment could involve changing the volume of a gas-filled container, such as a syringe, while measuring the resulting pressure changes. This experiment helps to demonstrate the inverse relationship between pressure and volume.
Overall, our bodies have adapted to the atmospheric pressure through various mechanisms, including pressure equalization, flexibility, and the functioning of our respiratory and circulatory systems. These adaptive processes ensure that we can exist comfortably in the Earth's atmosphere without being overwhelmed by its pressure.