Difference Between Force and Pressure

There can be a major difference between force and pressure, even though both are physics entities. To understand the difference, we need to understand the definition and its application. Force is the push and pull action resulting in the change of motion and direction, whereas pressure is the physical force per unit area.

Difference Between Force and Pressure

Force is the effect caused by the interaction of two objects which tries to change the state of the object. The pressure is the force acting on an object perpendicular to the object’s surface, which results in the spreading of force over a certain area. This could be similar to the difference between stress and pressure. Therefore, if force is applied over a large area, then pressure is said to be low, and if the same force is applied to a small area, then the resulting pressure is said to be high.

Difference Between Force and Pressure
Force Pressure
The push and pull action results in the acceleration of the object. The force applied perpendicular to the surface of an object per unit area over which that force is distributed.
Its SI unit is newton and is represented by N. Its SI unit is pascal and is represented as Pa.
The instrument to measure force is called a dynamometer. The two main instruments used to measure pressure are manometers and barometers. In relation to the prevailing atmospheric pressure, the barometer measures pressure. A manometer is used for measuring the fluid pressure with respect to an outside source which is usually considered to be the earth’s atmosphere.
Force is a vector quantity which means it has direction along with magnitude. The pressure is a scalar quantity which means it does not have a direction.
Force can be acted upon on the face, edges, side or vertices of the object. Pressure only acts on the surface or face of the object.
The velocity of an object can be changed with the application of force in one direction. Pressure on the object won’t change the direction of the object.

These were some differences between force and pressure. If you wish to find out more, download BYJU’S – The Learning App.

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Introduction to Force And Its Types

Frequently Asked Questions – FAQs

Q1

What is force?

The push and pull action resulting in the object’s acceleration is known as force.
Q2

What is the unit of force?

The unit of force is newton (N).

Q3

Define pressure.

The force applied perpendicular to the surface of an object per unit area over which that force is distributed is called pressure.

Q4

What is the unit of pressure?

The unit of pressure is the pascal.
Q5

Is force a scalar or a vector quantity?

Force is a vector quantity.
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  1. good differece

  2. thank u for ur support ,due to u i got A+

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