Conversion Formula:
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The conversion between atmospheres (atm) and millimeters of mercury (mmHg) is a fundamental pressure unit conversion in physics and engineering. 1 atmosphere is defined as exactly 760 mmHg at sea level and 0°C.
The calculator uses the simple conversion formula:
Where:
Explanation: This direct multiplication comes from the definition of standard atmosphere, which was originally based on the pressure exerted by a 760 mm column of mercury.
Details: Accurate pressure conversion is essential in meteorology, aviation, medicine (blood pressure), and various scientific experiments where different pressure units are used.
Tips: Simply enter the pressure value in atmospheres and the calculator will instantly provide the equivalent in millimeters of mercury.
Q1: Why is 1 atm equal to exactly 760 mmHg?
A: This was established by international agreement in 1954, based on the average atmospheric pressure at sea level which supports a 760 mm column of mercury.
Q2: Is this conversion temperature dependent?
A: The 760 mmHg = 1 atm definition assumes standard temperature (0°C). At other temperatures, mercury's density changes slightly, but the conversion factor remains 760 by definition.
Q3: What are some common uses of mmHg?
A: mmHg is commonly used in medicine for blood pressure, in meteorology for atmospheric pressure, and in vacuum measurements.
Q4: How precise is this conversion?
A: The conversion is exact by definition, with no rounding error since 760 is an exact value in the relationship.
Q5: Are there other pressure units I should know?
A: Other common pressure units include pascals (Pa), bars, torr (1 torr = 1 mmHg), and pounds per square inch (psi).