Describe the changes in barometric pressure

The Changes in Barometric Pressure Student’s Name Institution of Affiliation Course Instructor Date Changes in Barometric Pressure, PO2, and Air Density with Increasing Altitude There are several environmental conditions that alter as the altitude increases, and these have direct effects on human physiology and performance. Atmospheric pressure, which is the pressure exerted by the said gases, reduces with height, “Atmospheric pressure, PO2, air temperature, and air density all decrease with altitude.” (Lecture Slide 7). Barometric pressure values are higher at sea level and are equal to 760 mmHg, but at high altitudes, there is less pressure because the thickness of the atmosphere is decreased. Therefore, the PO2, which is the partial pressure of oxygen, drops since pressure is being applied to the given substance. It plays an important role in the oxygenation of hemoglobin and oxygen transport to the tissues. For instance, at sea level, PO2 will be approximately 159 mmHg, whereas at an altitude of 4000 meters, it will be 90 mmHg. Likewise, with altitude, the air gets thinner, and so air density decreases gradually. As a result of lower air density, the number of oxygen molecules per breath will be required and, hence a reduced ability of the body to obtain adequate oxygen, thus potentially leading to a decrease in maximal aerobic power. Due to lack of oxygen at higher altitudes, the aerobic threshold (VO2 max) namely, the maximal amount of oxygen that can be consumed in a given period during incremental exercise, is held back. Effect on Maximal Aerobic Power and Endurance Performance At high altitudes, the target VO2 max falls ...