Why might a person feel their ears "pop" when ascending or descending rapidly in an airplane, and what pressure principle is at play?

7 views 1 helpful Updated Jul 27, 2026
Appears in Class 8th
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Answer

This sensation occurs due to changes in atmospheric pressure. As an airplane ascends, the external air pressure decreases, creating a pressure difference between the air in the middle ear and the outside. As it descends, the external pressure increases. The "pop" happens when the Eustachian tubes open to equalize this pressure difference, preventing discomfort or damage to the eardrum.

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