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Pressure Force Area Corbettmaths

Pressure Formula:

\[ P = \frac{F}{A} \]

N
Pa

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1. What is the Pressure Force Area Formula?

Definition: This calculator computes pressure using the fundamental formula P = F/A, where pressure equals force divided by area.

Purpose: It helps students, engineers, and physicists calculate pressure in various applications from hydraulics to structural engineering.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ P = \frac{F}{A} \]

Where:

Explanation: Pressure is calculated by dividing the applied force by the contact area over which the force is distributed.

3. Importance of Pressure Calculation

Details: Understanding pressure is crucial for designing structures, hydraulic systems, and understanding fluid dynamics in various engineering applications.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the force in Newtons and area in square meters. Both values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are the units of pressure?
A: The SI unit is Pascals (Pa), where 1 Pa = 1 N/m². Other common units include psi, bar, and atm.

Q2: How does area affect pressure?
A: Pressure is inversely proportional to area - smaller contact area means greater pressure for the same force.

Q3: What's a typical example of this principle?
A: Snowshoes distribute weight over larger area to reduce pressure and prevent sinking in snow.

Q4: Can I calculate force if I know pressure and area?
A: Yes, rearrange the formula: F = P × A.

Q5: What's the difference between pressure and stress?
A: Pressure is external force per area, while stress is internal resistance force per area within materials.

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