Thrust and Pressure

Force acting on an object perpendicular to the surface is called thrust.

Effect of thrust depends on the area of contact.

The pressure is thrust per unit area.

SI unit is the pascal (Pa).

Force acting on a smaller area applies more pressure than the same force acting on a larger area.

• Pressure depends on two factors

(i) Force applied

(ii) Area of surface over which force acts

Examples of Pressure

→ The base of high buildings is made wider so that weight of walls act over a large surface are

pressure is less.

→ School bags are having broad strap so that the weight of school bags fall over a larger area so that student feel less pressure on shoulders.

--> liquids and gases are fluids and they exert pressure in all directions.