Hurricane Wilma of 2005 is the most intense hurricane on record in the Atlantic basin, with a low-pressure reading of 882 mbar (millibars). Convert this reading into (b) torr.

Verified step by step guidance

1. Identify the conversion factor between millibars (mbar) and torr. The conversion factor is 1 mbar = 0.750062 torr.
2. Set up the conversion equation using the given pressure in millibars. Multiply the pressure value by the conversion factor to convert it to torr.
3. Write the equation: Pressure in torr = Pressure in mbar imes Conversion factor.
4. Substitute the given value (882 mbar) and the conversion factor (0.750062 torr/mbar) into the equation.
5. Calculate the product to find the pressure in torr.

Key Concepts

Pressure Units

Pressure is a measure of force applied per unit area and can be expressed in various units, including millibars (mbar) and torr. Understanding these units is essential for converting between them, as they both quantify atmospheric pressure but are based on different scales.

Conversion Factors

To convert pressure readings from one unit to another, a conversion factor is used. For instance, 1 mbar is equivalent to approximately 0.75006 torr. Knowing how to apply these conversion factors is crucial for accurately translating measurements between different pressure units.

Atmospheric Pressure

Atmospheric pressure is the weight of the air above a given point and is typically measured at sea level. It plays a significant role in weather patterns and phenomena like hurricanes, making it important to understand how pressure readings relate to meteorological events.