Puzzles on atmospheric pressure

🌍 Applications of Atmospheric Pressure

Atmospheric pressure is the force exerted by the air around us. This invisible pressure has many interesting applications in our daily life. Let’s explore!

1. Drinking through a Straw 🥤

When you suck air from a straw, the air inside reduces. The greater atmospheric pressure outside pushes the liquid into the straw and into your mouth.

2. Suction Cups 🧲

Pressing a suction cup against a wall removes the air inside. The outside air pressure keeps it stuck firmly.

3. Vacuum Sealed Packs 🍲

Food packets are vacuum sealed to remove air. Atmospheric pressure outside keeps the packet tightly pressed.

4. Lifting Water with a Pump 🚰

Water pumps work by creating low pressure inside, allowing atmospheric pressure to push water up into the pump.

5. Syringe Use 💉

When you pull the plunger of a syringe, air pressure pushes the liquid inside the syringe.

🧩 Fun Puzzles on Atmospheric Pressure

1. Why can’t a suction cup stick if the wall surface is rough?

Because air cannot be completely removed from gaps, so pressure difference is not created.

2. Why does a vacuum-sealed chip packet look puffed up at high mountains?

Because outside atmospheric pressure decreases at high altitudes.

3. Why does a straw not work if it has a hole?

Air enters through the hole, preventing the pressure difference needed to lift liquid.

4. Why can’t water be pumped higher than 10.3 m with a suction pump?

Because atmospheric pressure can only support a water column up to about 10.3 m.

5. Why does a syringe draw liquid in when the plunger is pulled?

Pulling the plunger reduces pressure inside, so atmospheric pressure pushes liquid inside.