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In the mercury barometer, atmospheric pressure balances a column of mercury, the height of which can be precisely measured. Other liquids can be used in barometers, but mercury is the most common because of its great density.
Mainly due to its high density

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Mercury is used in barometers because it is a dense liquid at room temperature, making it ideal for measuring atmospheric pressure. Its high density allows for a clear and precise reading of pressure changes, as the column of mercury inside the barometer moves up and down in response to changes in air pressure. Mercury also does not adhere to glass, allowing for an accurate indication of pressure levels.

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11mo ago
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In the mercury barometer, atmospheric pressure balances a column of mercury, the height of which can be precisely measured. Other liquids can be used in barometers, but mercury is the most common because of its great density (13.6 g/cm3). With a mercury barometer the column of fluid is only 760 mm high at normal atmopheric pressure, with water (with a much lower density of 1 g/cm3) it would have to be almost 10 m tall.

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14y ago
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Mercury is used in barometers due to its high density. This allows mercury to be used in a small container. If you used water for example, which has a low density, your barometer would have to be around 15-34 meters tall.

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14y ago
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Q: Why is Mercury used in barometers?
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