Describe where the 850-mb level is in the atmosphere. Is it higher or lower than the 500-mb level?
Geography · Middle School · Thu Feb 04 2021
Answered on
The 850-mb (millibar) level in the atmosphere is typically found at an altitude ranging from approximately 1,500 meters (5,000 feet) to 1,800 meters (5,900 feet) above sea level. This value is not fixed and can vary depending on the atmospheric conditions such as temperature and weather patterns. Meteorologists use a standard atmosphere reference where the pressure decreases with altitude, and the 850-mb level represents a specific pressure zone within the atmosphere.
Compared to the 500-mb level, the 850-mb level is lower in the atmosphere. The 500-mb level is found at a higher altitude, usually around 5,500 meters (18,000 feet) above sea level. This is because in the atmosphere, pressure decreases with increasing altitude, and therefore, a lower millibar value indicates a higher point in the atmosphere.