Drone Pilot Practice Exam

What happens to air pressure as altitude increases?

1. It remains constant

2. It decreases

3. It increases

4. It becomes erratic

The correct answer is: It decreases

As altitude increases, air pressure decreases. This phenomenon occurs because the atmosphere is composed of layers of air, and as you ascend, there is less air above exerting downward pressure. The weight of the air above a given point, which contributes to air pressure, diminishes with altitude. At sea level, air pressure is highest due to the dense concentration of air molecules. As one ascends in elevation, there are fewer air molecules present above, resulting in lower air pressure. This is a fundamental concept in atmospheric science and is crucial for drone pilots to understand, as it affects flight performance, particularly in relation to lift, engine performance, and the behavior of the drone at different altitudes. This fundamental change in air pressure with altitude is vital for navigation and controlling drones, ensuring the pilot can adjust their operations effectively as they fly at varying levels.