What type of pressure is created by the weight of atmospheric gases?

Atmospheric pressure is defined as the force exerted by the weight of the air above a surface due to gravity. This pressure decreases with altitude, as the density of the air decreases and there is less air above a given point. It is a fundamental concept in aerospace physiology, affecting various physiological and operational aspects for pilots and aircrew.

Understanding atmospheric pressure is crucial, as it influences the behavior of gases, the performance of aircraft, and the functioning of the human body at different altitudes. For example, as altitude increases, atmospheric pressure drops, which can lead to hypoxia if the body does not receive enough oxygen due to lower air pressure.

Other types of pressure listed, such as hydrostatic pressure, pertains to fluids in a gravitational field and is not directly related to the weight of atmospheric gases. Dynamic pressure relates to the kinetic energy of air moving over a surface, while indicated pressure refers to the readings displayed on instruments, often influenced by atmospheric pressure but not describing the pressure itself. Thus, atmospheric pressure is the correct term for the pressure created specifically by the weight of atmospheric gases.