Thrust and pressure sheet3-mark answer frameDefine pressure and give its SI unit. Explain, with one example each, how pressure is increased and how it is reduced in daily life.
How to lay out the answer. Follow the frame, then write it in your own words.
- 1 · Define. Pressure is the thrust (perpendicular force) acting on unit area: P = F/A.
- 2 · Give the unit. The SI unit is N m⁻², called the pascal (Pa).
- 3 · Explain the rule. For the same force, a smaller area gives more pressure and a larger area gives less.
- 4 · Example of more pressure. A sharp knife has a very thin edge, so a small push gives a large pressure and it cuts easily.
- 5 · Example of less pressure. An army tank runs on wide chain belts, which spread its weight so it does not sink.
- 6 · Close. So we change the area to get the pressure we need.
Scoring tip: Always write P = F/A with the unit pascal. Give one example of each kind.