Suggestion for Learning about Atmospheric Pressure Using Hydrostatic Equilibrium

Abstract

Experiment-based discussion is one of the effective methods for learning related to air. The purpose of this study is to consider the weight of air using the hydrostatic equilibrium related to atmospheric pressure and altitude. In experiments at this university, utilizing smartphones equipped with barometer sensors in addition to general barometers successfully raised the students’ awareness of experimentation. Based on the success of this experiment, we make proposals for each learning stage of the students, and, further, emphasize the importance of student experiment-based discussion of the weight of air. Finally, we posit that, after students achieve a sound understanding the concept of atmospheric pressure, disaster prevention education using weather maps should also be conducted from elementary school science classes onward.