What does static pressure measure in an aircraft?

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Static pressure in an aircraft measures the ambient static pressure, which is the atmospheric pressure of the air around the aircraft. This pressure is crucial for determining various flight parameters, including altitude and airspeed. The static pressure is a fundamental input for instruments such as the altimeter, which reads altitude based on the difference between the aircraft's static pressure and the standard atmospheric pressure at sea level.

By measuring ambient static pressure, pilots can gauge altitude relative to the pressure levels and account for fluctuations caused by temperature and weather changes. It is not limited to just determining altitude; instead, it provides a comprehensive measure of the surrounding environment’s pressure.

The other choices do not encapsulate the full role of static pressure. While altitude is a significant outcome of measuring static pressure, it does not solely measure altitude. It also doesn't measure velocity, as that is determined by dynamic pressure, which is related to the aircraft's motion through the air. Therefore, selecting the statement that identifies static pressure as measuring ambient static pressure encompasses its broader purpose and application in aviation.

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