Key Stage 3
Meaning
Pressure is the force on a surface per unit area.
About Pressure
- Pressure is measured in Pascals (Pa).
- A large force on a small area causes a large pressure.
- A small force on a large area causes a small pressure.
Equation
\[P = \tfrac{F}{A}\] Where:
- P = Pressure
- F = Force
- A = Area
Example Calculations
| A hydraulic press is used to stamp metal. The press provides a force of 1000N over an area of 0.0002m2. Calculate the Pressure applied by the press. | A 25000N elephant stands on 4 feet. The area of each food is 0.01m2. Calculate the pressure on one foot. | A person wearing stilettos rests their entire weight of 600N on one heel. The heel has an area of 0.0005m2 |
|
F = 1000N A = 0.0002m2 \[P = \tfrac{F}{A}\] \[P = \tfrac{1000}{0.0002}\] \[P = 5,000,000Pa\] |
F = 25000N Area of 1 foot = 0.01m2 Area of 4 feet = 0.04m2</sup \[P = \tfrac{F}{A}\] \[P = \tfrac{25000}{0.04}\] \[P = 625,000Pa\] |
F = 600N A = 0.0005m2 \[P = \tfrac{F}{A}\] \[P = \tfrac{600}{0.0005}\] \[P = 1,200,000Pa\] |