At sea level, what is the atmospheric pressure in psi?

At sea level, the standard atmospheric pressure is consistently recognized as 14.7 psi (pounds per square inch). This value is derived from the weight of the air above a given surface area, which exerts force due to gravity. Atmospheric pressure is crucial for divers as it influences buoyancy and the behavior of gases in the body during a dive.

This established pressure at sea level is used as a baseline for many calculations in diving, particularly when considering how pressure changes with depth. For example, as a diver descends, the pressure increases beyond the sea level baseline, which is important for understanding how to manage issues such as gas expansion and decompression during ascent.

The other options do not reflect standard atmospheric pressure at sea level and are not utilized in diving safety procedures, thereby reinforcing that 14.7 psi is the correct reference point for atmospheric pressure at sea level.