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AerodynamicsQuestion 405 of 934

Compare the weight of the atmosphere at 18,000 feet with its weight at sea level. What is the result?

  1. It is one-quarter as much
  2. It is two-thirds as much
  3. It is about the same
  4. It is one-half as much
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Correct answer: It is one-half as much

The higher the altitude, the less air there is above. At 18,000 feet the weight is one-half the sea level value.

Source: Pilot's Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge (FAA-H-8083-25C), Chapter 4: Principles of Flight — Atmospheric Pressure, page 90

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Questions last reviewed: 18 October 2026