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Pressure - IGCSE Physics Definition

Reviewed by: Leander Oates

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What is pressure?

In IGCSE Physics, pressure is defined as the force exerted per unit area on a surface. Pressure occurs when a force is applied perpendicular to the surface of an object.

Pressure can be calculated using the following equation:

p space equals F over A

Where:

  • p = pressure, measured in pascals (Pa) or newtons per metre squared (straight N divided by straight m squared)

  • F = force, measured in newtons (straight N)

  • A = area measured, in metres squared (straight m squared)

Understanding pressure is crucial in various contexts, such as explaining how gases behave, understanding hydraulic systems, and describing atmospheric phenomena.

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Leander Oates

Reviewer: Leander Oates

Expertise: Senior Physics Content Creator

Leander graduated with First-class honours in Science and Education from Sheffield Hallam University. She won the prestigious Lord Robert Winston Solomon Lipson Prize in recognition of her dedication to science and teaching excellence. After teaching and tutoring both science and maths students, Leander now brings this passion for helping young people reach their potential to her work at SME.

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