An altitude gauge is necessary for systems located at higher altitudes due to what reason?

An altitude gauge is essential for systems situated at higher altitudes primarily because of variations in atmospheric pressure. As altitude increases, the atmospheric pressure decreases, which can significantly impact the performance of various systems. For instance, in piping and plumbing systems, both water boiling points and the behavior of certain liquids can change due to lower pressure, which can lead to issues such as cavitation or changes in flow rates. By utilizing an altitude gauge, technicians and engineers can monitor these pressure variations and adjust operations or system designs accordingly to maintain efficiency and safety. This awareness allows for necessary modifications to compensate for altitude effects, ensuring the system functions optimally under varying environmental conditions.