Pressure Formula:
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Absolute pressure is the total pressure measured relative to perfect vacuum, while gauge pressure is the pressure measured relative to atmospheric pressure. The relationship between them is fundamental in fluid mechanics and engineering applications.
The calculator uses the pressure formula:
Where:
Explanation: This formula converts gauge pressure readings to absolute pressure by adding the atmospheric pressure reference.
Details: Understanding the difference between absolute and gauge pressure is crucial for accurate pressure measurements in various applications including HVAC systems, industrial processes, meteorological measurements, and scientific research.
Tips: Enter gauge pressure and atmospheric pressure in Pascals (Pa). Both values must be non-negative. Standard atmospheric pressure is approximately 101,325 Pa at sea level.
Q1: What is the difference between absolute and gauge pressure?
A: Absolute pressure is measured from absolute zero (perfect vacuum), while gauge pressure is measured relative to atmospheric pressure.
Q2: When should I use absolute pressure vs gauge pressure?
A: Use absolute pressure for scientific calculations and vacuum systems. Use gauge pressure for most industrial and everyday applications where atmospheric pressure is the reference.
Q3: What is standard atmospheric pressure?
A: Standard atmospheric pressure at sea level is 101,325 Pa (101.325 kPa) or 14.696 psi.
Q4: Can gauge pressure be negative?
A: Yes, gauge pressure can be negative when measuring pressures below atmospheric pressure (vacuum conditions).
Q5: What units are commonly used for pressure?
A: Common units include Pascals (Pa), kilopascals (kPa), bars, atmospheres (atm), pounds per square inch (psi), and millimeters of mercury (mmHg).