Podcast Summary
Mount Everest height: The height of Mount Everest is constantly changing due to challenges in accurately determining its base level, which requires precise sea level measurement
The height of Mount Everest, the tallest mountain in the world, is not a fixed number. The official height is constantly changing due to the challenges in accurately determining the mountain's base level, which is measured from sea level. This was explored in a recent episode of the podcast "Power User," where Noam Hassenfeld interviewed Nepali surveyor Kimlal Gautam, who took the most recent measurement of Everest's height. The process involved climbing to the mountain's summit and waiting to receive as many satellite pings as possible to ensure an accurate measurement. However, even reaching the summit is just the beginning, as the real challenge lies in determining an accurate sea level measurement, which has been a problem scientists have been working on for over a century. This is a reminder that even seemingly straightforward measurements can be complex and require careful consideration.
Measuring mountain heights: Despite the challenges of measuring sea level and using trigonometry, early estimates of Mount Everest's height were remarkably close to modern measurements. However, advances in technology like GPS have made it easier and more accurate to measure both sea level and mountain heights today.
Measuring the height of Mount Everest and determining sea level for such a measurement has been a complex and time-consuming process, especially in mountain ranges like the Himalayas. British and Indian surveyors in the 1800s used methods like trigonometry and theodolites to estimate Everest's height based on sea level measurements taken at the coast. However, these methods were not very accurate due to the complications of measuring sea level, which can vary significantly due to factors like tides and temperature differences. The first measurement of Everest's height was remarkably close to the modern measurement, but there have been fluctuations over the years due to these measurement challenges. Dan Roman, a scientist at NOAA, explains that sea level is not as uniform as we might think, with variations caused by factors like temperature and currents. Despite these challenges, advances in technology like GPS have made it easier and more accurate to measure both sea level and mountain heights today.
Mountain height measurement complexities: Measuring mountain heights, like Mount Everest, is complex due to the influence of sea level, Earth's shape, and gravitational pull, and the constantly changing height due to tectonic activity.
Measuring the height of a mountain like Mount Everest is more complicated than it seems due to the complexities of sea level. While we often think of sea level as being uniform around the world, it's actually influenced by the Earth's shape and the gravitational pull of large objects like mountains. Scientists use global mean sea level as a reference, but even that can be challenging to measure accurately. Additionally, the height of Mount Everest itself is changing due to tectonic activity, making it a constantly shifting target. So while we may have an official height for Mount Everest, it's important to remember that it's not a fixed number and will continue to change over time.
Mountain height measurement challenges: Sea level is a common base measurement, but it can't be used for structures far from the sea. Everest might not be the tallest mountain depending on the measurement used.
While sea level is an essential measurement for various reasons, it can be challenging to use as a base measurement for determining the height of structures not near the sea. Everest, for instance, might not be the tallest mountain if another measurement is used. During the discussion, we also explored how Zocdoc simplifies the process of finding and booking doctors' appointments online, and Bombas' commitment to both comfort and social responsibility. Squarespace was introduced as an easy solution for creating websites without requiring extensive technical knowledge, and 1Password was highlighted for its role in securing digital information.
Mountain measurement perspectives: The height of a mountain can be measured differently depending on the perspective, impacting the final result. Use a password manager for strong and secure passwords.
Measuring the height of a mountain can be more complex than just looking at its peak. Perspective plays a crucial role, as the base measurement can significantly impact the final result. For instance, Mauna Kea in Hawaii and Denali in Alaska could be considered taller than Mount Everest depending on the base measurement. Mauna Kea, being mostly underwater, would be the tallest if measured from the bottom to the top. Denali, on the other hand, would be taller than Everest by approximately 6000 feet if measured from the base to the peak, as its base is much closer to sea level. These examples illustrate that the definition of a mountain and how we measure it can be subjective. Regarding the password discussion, the key takeaway is that strong passwords are essential for security, with some passwords being so strong that they might outlive the known universe. However, even the strongest passwords can be hacked eventually, so it's important to use a password manager like 1Password to securely store and manage your passwords. Lastly, Mount Everest, the tallest mountain in the world based on the common base-to-peak measurement, is a complex geological feature that can be measured differently depending on the perspective. Other mountains, like Mauna Kea and Denali, could potentially be taller based on different measurements.
Mountain height measurement: The height of a mountain depends on the chosen base level, and different mountains like Chimborazo and Denali could be considered taller based on specific base measurements
The measurement of a mountain's height depends on the chosen base level. While Everest is currently considered the tallest mountain from sea level, other mountains like Chimborazo and Denali could be considered taller if different base measurements are used. For instance, Chimborazo is closer to space due to the Earth's bulge at the equator, making it a contender for the title of the tallest mountain if measured from the center of the Earth. On the other hand, Denali might feel taller to climbers due to the Himalayan plateau under Everest, which isn't taken into account when measuring Everest's height from sea level. However, measuring sea level itself is a challenge, and scientists are working on a new model to make it more universal and objective. Ultimately, the measurement of mountain heights and the choice of base levels can be seen as a fascinating quirk of geodesy, with implications for those who enjoy trivia and the pursuit of superlatives.
Mountain height disputes: Mountain height disputes can lead to excitement and interest in climbing, but scientific accuracy is crucial to prevent confusion and maintain cultural significance
The quest for identifying and climbing the tallest mountain in the world has driven both scientific discovery and tourism. The measurement of K2 in Pakistan in the 1980s, which briefly made it taller than Everest, sparked excitement and interest, leading many to consider climbing it instead. However, the measurement was later debunked, but the episode highlighted the immense pride communities take in having such mountains in their countries. Nepal, being the home of Mount Everest, felt a strong responsibility to clarify its height after the devastating earthquake. Even though the measurement may change again, the climb holds significant importance for Nepal and its people. The episode underscores the importance of scientific accuracy while also acknowledging the cultural significance of these mountains.