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Q:

Where does pressure come from?

A:

Air is not just empty space. It is made up of molecules which are pulled down to Earth by gravity. That pull makes molecules bump into each other, exerting pressure. Our bodies are specially adapted to living under 1 kilogram per square centimeter (14.7 pounds per square inch) of pressure pushing down on us at sea level!

Ask an Explainer
Posted on October 7, 2014 at 9:27 am
Categories:
Gravity & Air
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