Altitude is a term used to describe the vertical distance of a point or object above a reference level, such as sea level or the surface of the Earth. It is typically measured in units of meters or feet, and can be used to describe the height of a mountain, the elevation of a city, or the altitude of an airplane in flight. In this article, we will explore the concept of altitude in more detail, including its definitions, examples, and a quiz to test your understanding.
Definitions:
- Absolute altitude: Absolute altitude is the distance of an object above the surface of the Earth. This is typically measured from sea level, which is the reference level used for most altitude measurements. Absolute altitude is also known as “true altitude.”
- Indicated altitude: Indicated altitude is the altitude shown on an altimeter, which is a device used to measure altitude in an aircraft. An altimeter measures the pressure of the air, which decreases with increasing altitude. The indicated altitude is not always the same as the absolute altitude, as it can be affected by temperature, humidity, and other factors.
- Density altitude: Density altitude is a measure of the altitude at which the air density is the same as it is at a lower altitude. It is used to determine the performance of an aircraft, as the density of the air affects the lift and drag on the aircraft. Density altitude is affected by temperature, humidity, and pressure, and is typically higher in hot, humid conditions.
- Pressure altitude: Pressure altitude is the altitude at which the atmospheric pressure is the same as it is at a reference level, typically sea level. It is used to determine the true altitude of an aircraft when the pressure is not standard, such as at high altitudes or in non-standard temperature conditions.
- True altitude: True altitude is the actual height of an object above sea level. It is also known as “absolute altitude.”
Examples:
- Mount Everest: Mount Everest is the highest mountain in the world, with an altitude of 8,848 meters (29,029 feet). It is located in the Himalayas, on the border between Nepal and China.
- Denver, Colorado: Denver, the capital of Colorado, is located at an altitude of 1,609 meters (5,280 feet) above sea level. It is one of the highest major cities in the United States, and is known for its high altitude and dry, sunny climate.
- Airbus A380: The Airbus A380 is a large commercial airplane that is capable of flying at an altitude of up to 13,700 meters (45,000 feet). It is one of the highest-flying passenger planes in the world.
- Hot air balloon: Hot air balloons are able to fly at altitudes of up to 3,000 meters (10,000 feet). They use heated air to rise into the sky, and can be used for sightseeing, scientific research, or other purposes.
- Paraglider: Paragliders are small, lightweight gliders that are launched by running down a slope and jumping off. They are able to fly at altitudes of up to 4,000 meters (13,000 feet), and are often used for leisure or sport.
Quiz:
- What is absolute altitude? a. The distance of an object above the surface of the Earth b. The altitude shown on an altimeter c. The altitude at which the air density is the same as it is at a lower altitude d. The altitude at which the atmospheric pressure is the same as it is at a reference level
