JAMB Physics 1986 Question 22

Question 22

Pressure

Mercury is suitable as a barometric fluid because it

  1. A.expands uniformly
  2. B.is opaque
  3. C.is several times denser than water
  4. D.is a good conductor of heat.
Show the answer and explanation

Answer: C (is several times denser than water)

Explanation

Mercury's high density means atmospheric pressure supports only about 76 cm of it, a convenient length; water would need over 10 m.