1. Pressure

2. Pressure
This is the force per unit area applied in a direction perpendicular to the surface of the object.
Force (N)
Pressure (Pa)
Area (m2)

3. Pressure
If a woman’s mass is 55kg, then her weight would be 55 x 10 = 550N
If she balanced her weight on a single stiletto heel with an area of 1cm2 (0.0001m2).
Then the pressure would be 550/ = Nm-2, or Pa

4. Practical Applications
The narrow metal blade under an ice skating boot exerts a very high pressure on the surface of the ice. This causes the ice to melt under the blade, allowing the skater to glide smoothly.

5. Practical Applications
Skis used on a mountain slope have a larger surface area than ice skates. This reduces the pressure on the snow, preventing the skier from sinking.

6. Practical Applications
The wide tyres of a tractor reduce the pressure exerted on soft ground, so they do not sink into the ground.