The history of the barometer (and how it works) - Asaf Bar-Yosef
2,151,228 Views
23,653 Questions Answered
TEDEd Animation
Let’s Begin…
A barometer is an instrument that measures air pressure, allowing weather forecasters and scientists to better predict extreme weather events. Despite its incredible usefulness, inventing the barometer was no walk in the park. Asaf Bar-Yosef describes the series of scientists and events that contributed to the birth of the barometer -- and explains how it actually works.
Given what you know about barometers and atmospheric pressure, theorize what would happen if a barometer used a zig-zagged tube full of mercury. Would the levels match those of a barometer with a perfectly straight tube?
Sign in to answer questionAbout TED-Ed Animations
TED-Ed Animations feature the words and ideas of educators brought to life by professional animators. Are you an educator or animator interested in creating a TED-Ed Animation? Nominate yourself here »
Meet The Creators
- Educator Asaf Bar-Yosef
- Producer Stephen Whittle
- Animator Mara Fradella
- Narrator Addison Anderson
