Chapter 10, Problem 6Q

To determine

To explain: The reason why the jacket must be held at the level of the heart, when the blood pressure is measured.

Explanation of Solution

Introduction:

The physical force that is exerted perpendicular to the surface of an object per unit is defined as pressure. Mathematically given as:

  $P=\frac{F}{A}$

The pressure increases with increase in the depth of the given fluid. If the blood pressure is measured at some distance lower than the heart, the recorded blood pressure will be higher. Similarly, if the blood pressure is measured at some distance higher than the heart, then, the recorded blood pressure will be lower.

Conclusion:

Hence, when the blood pressure is measured the jacket must be held at the level of the heart.