volume_mute
Force on the Eardrum
publish date: 2026/05/19 19:14:48.081579 UTC
volume_mute
A person's eardrum has an area of about 1/16 square inch. At sea level, what is the approximate total force exerted by the atmosphere on this eardrum? (Atmospheric pressure = 14.7 lb/in²)
Correct Answer
0.92 lb
Explanation
Force = Pressure × Area = (14.7 lb/in²) × (1/16 in²) = 14.7 / 16 = 0.91875 lb, or approximately 0.92 pounds.
Reference
Basic Physics: A Self-Teaching Guide