How many feet correspond to a change of 1 inch in Hg?

The correct response indicates that a change of 1 inch in mercury (Hg) corresponds to approximately 1,000 feet of altitude change in the atmosphere. This relationship is grounded in the principles of atmospheric pressure and the characteristics of the standard atmosphere.

As altitude increases, atmospheric pressure decreases, and this decrease is measured in inches of mercury. The commonly accepted rule of thumb is that for every 1 inch of mercury increase or decrease in pressure, there is an altitude change of around 1,000 feet. This relationship provides a standardized way to estimate altitude based on pressure readings, which is particularly useful in aviation and meteorology.

Understanding this concept is essential for pilots and meteorologists who rely on barometric pressure to determine altitude and assess weather patterns. It ensures that they can accurately interpret pressure changes and their potential impact on flight safety and weather conditions.