A hot air balloon is a large vessel filled with heated air that allows for human flight. It is heated by a propane heater and can be steered by changing altitude. Balloons come in different sizes and were first used for human flight in 1783. Ballooning has become a popular pastime and is ideal for […]
Air purifying respirators use masks, filters, and cartridges to filter contaminants from the air. There are many types for specific uses, from disposable dust masks to heavy-duty respirators for construction and mining. They offer mobility but require adequate oxygen in the environment. Air purifying respirators are special types of masks that cover the nose and […]
Air ambulances are equipped with medical equipment and a highly trained crew to transport critically injured or ill patients to medical facilities. They are used in difficult terrain or coastal cities, for search and rescue, and in critical non-emergency situations. Private air ambulance companies provide transport services with a medical team. An air ambulance is […]
Hot air balloons come in a variety of shapes and designs, including animals, movie characters, vehicles, and consumer products. They are often used for promotional purposes and to advertise businesses. Some unique designs include a giant shoe and a hot air balloon shaped like Darth Vader’s helmet. Winged cows, space shuttles and giant turtles are […]
The Air Force ROTC Scholarship pays for tuition, books, room, and board for students in American colleges and universities who participate in the ROTC. Scholarships are offered for 2-4 years and cover any discipline deemed necessary by Air Force requirements. The program has scholarships for high school students, college students, and Air Force personnel. Upon […]
Air Force optometrists perform routine eye exams and treat eye health conditions for service personnel and their families. They must have an OD degree and be licensed to practice in the US or its territories. The Air Force provides equipment, supplies, and support personnel. An optometrist is a licensed professional who has completed a minimum […]
Atmospheric pressure is the weight or force exerted by the atmosphere on a defined part of the Earth. Barometers are used to measure pressure, with mercury or water barometers measuring air pressure by pushing the material up a tube. Aneroid barometers use the contraction and expansion of a metal cell to measure pressure. Air pressure […]
Air traffic control training is offered by government agencies such as the FAA and Eurocontrol. Candidates must be citizens, meet age limits, pass medical and security checks, and demonstrate language proficiency. Those without experience need a college degree or three years of professional experience. The Collegiate Air Traffic Training Initiative Program is also available in […]
A wireless air card allows computers to connect to cellular networks for internet access. It has a wider range than WiFi but requires a compatible network and subscription. Check with your cell phone provider for options and coverage. A wireless air card, or Internet card, is a card designed to help a computer connect to […]
Air currents are caused by pressure and temperature differences, shaping Earth’s climate and weather. Pressure differences create surface winds, while temperature differences create rising drafts and thunderstorms. The jet stream is a fast-moving air current caused by large temperature differences. A stream of air is a moving mass of air. They are caused by a […]
Air traffic controllers ensure the safety and navigation of commercial and private planes. Becoming an air traffic controller requires extensive education and training, including passing certification exams and gaining on-the-job experience. Strong character traits, such as confidence, quick decision-making, and effective communication, are also necessary. An air traffic controller ensures that commercial and private planes […]
Zinc-air batteries are metal-air electric storage devices that work through the oxidation of zinc. They are inexpensive and have a large capacity, but most are not rechargeable. They have a high longevity when sealed, but discharge quickly once exposed to oxygen. They have three times the capacity of alkaline batteries and are used in remote […]
Compressed air is air held in containers at high pressure, used in various industries to power machines and tools. It can be compressed using hand pumps or mechanical compressors, and is safe and easy to use. Air that is held inside one of several types of special containers at a small volume is known as […]
Airborne particles, such as fog, dust, and smoke, can cause health problems and affect the Earth’s climate. They vary in size and can be natural or man-made. Airborne particle counters can measure their content, and particles less than 2.5 microns may be particularly harmful to humans. Airborne particles are very fine particles made up of […]
Sound waves travel faster through solids and liquids than through air, with speeds of up to 3.7 miles per second in steel and 0.93 miles per second in seawater. Sound travels slower in air, at about 0.21 miles per second. Sound waves can travel faster through solids than through air, in some cases more than […]
Air traffic controllers can have different paths to their career, with previous experience and education being important factors. A degree in aviation or air traffic management may be required for those without work experience. Government organizations, such as the FAA in the US, oversee the employment of air traffic controllers and partner with schools to […]
Density measures the mass of a material in a given volume. Solid density remains constant, while gas density is affected by pressure, temperature, and humidity. Air density is calculated and changes with altitude, temperature, and humidity. Higher altitude and temperature decrease air density, while humidity reduces it due to the lower molecular weight of water. […]
Air ionization involves the formation of charged ions in the air, which can be achieved naturally or through devices. Negative ions are more effective for air purification, but there are concerns about the potential formation of harmful gases. Air ionizers can also prevent electrostatic discharges. Natural ionization can occur during storms or by rock pressure, […]
To become an airlift pilot, one must have flying experience, pass an exam, and meet requirements for a pilot’s license. Air transport pilots must have additional licensing and medical training, and meet specific flight hour requirements. Good physical health, strong personal character, and medical training are also necessary. Become an airlift pilot through a combination […]
Air is composed of nitrogen, oxygen, water vapor, argon, and carbon dioxide. Oxygen is necessary for animals, while plants need carbon dioxide and nitrogen. Human activity can alter air composition. Air follows Boyle’s law. Balloons filled with air from different altitudes will behave differently. Earth’s gravity holds air near its surface. There are five major […]
