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Torr[edit | edit source]
The torr is a unit of pressure based on an absolute scale, now defined as exactly 1/760 of a standard atmosphere (101325 pascals). It is named after the Italian physicist Evangelista Torricelli, who is credited with inventing the barometer in 1643.
History[edit | edit source]
The torr was originally intended to be a unit equal to the pressure exerted by a millimeter of mercury (mmHg) at 0 °C under standard gravity. This was based on Torricelli's experiments with mercury barometers, where he observed that the height of mercury in a tube was a measure of atmospheric pressure.
In 1954, the definition of the atmosphere was revised to be exactly 101325 pascals, and the torr was redefined as 1/760 of this value. This redefinition was made to ensure consistency and precision in scientific measurements.
Definition[edit | edit source]
1 torr is defined as exactly 101325/760 pascals, which is approximately 133.322368 pascals. This definition allows for precise conversion between the torr and other units of pressure, such as the pascal, bar, and atmosphere.
Usage[edit | edit source]
The torr is commonly used in fields such as vacuum technology, meteorology, and medicine, particularly in measuring blood pressure. In medicine, blood pressure is often measured in millimeters of mercury (mmHg), which is numerically equivalent to the torr.
Conversion[edit | edit source]
The torr can be converted to other units of pressure using the following relationships:
- 1 torr = 133.322368 pascals (Pa)
- 1 torr = 0.00131578947 atmospheres (atm)
- 1 torr = 0.0193367747 pounds per square inch (psi)
Significance in Medicine[edit | edit source]
In the medical field, the torr is significant in measuring blood pressure, intraocular pressure, and other physiological pressures. Blood pressure readings are typically given in millimeters of mercury (mmHg), which are equivalent to torrs. For example, a blood pressure reading of 120/80 mmHg is equivalent to 120/80 torr.
Related Units[edit | edit source]
The torr is closely related to the millimeter of mercury (mmHg), which is another unit of pressure. Both units are used interchangeably in many applications, especially in medicine.
Also see[edit | edit source]
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD
