Pressure

Science

In the Particle explanations of density and pressure unit, pupils will build on this knowledge to learn how the arrangement and movement of particles in solids, liquids and gases explain density, pressure, floating and convection.

In the Forces unit, pupils learnt how to accurately describe and explain the actions of forces in a range of situations.

This unit explores forces, deformation, Hooke’s Law, moments, and work done. It covers pressure in liquids, atmospheric pressure, upthrust, and equilibrium, as well as simple machines and force-extension relationships, highlighting how forces affect motion, friction, and object deformation.

Hidden forces

Physical activity and equipment requiring safe use

Which of these will increase the pressure acting on a surface?

A force of 300 N acts over an area of 20 cm$$^2$$. What pressure does the force cause?

Which of these is the same pressure as 100 000 Pa?

A bench of weight 800 N makes contact with the floor over an area of 400 cm$$^2$$. What pressure does it put on the floor in pascals?

A force of 5000 N acting over an area of 1 square metres.

A force of 5000 N acting over an area of 2 square metres.

A force of 6000 N acting over an area of 3 square metres.

A force of 2000 N acting over an area of 50 square metres.

Starting with the largest, sort the following into order of pressure.

Complete the sentence: The unit of force is the {{_______}}, which has the symbol N.

The force causes the balloon to speed up.

The force causes the balloon to change shape.

The balloon will put an upwards force on the hand.

The balloon will put a downwards force on the table.

The table will put an upwards force on the balloon.

The figure shows a force acting on a balloon resting on a table with a hand pushing downwards on it. Which statements are correct?

Which force on objects like springs or rubber bands will cause them to stretch?

A set of bathroom scales shows a reading of 110 kg. What is the weight of the object on the scales? The gravitational field strength on Earth is 10 N/kg

The total length of the spring will double when 8 N is placed on it.

The extension of the spring will double when 8 N is placed on it.

The total length of the spring will stay constant when 8 N is placed on it.

The total length of the spring doubles every time 4 N is added to it.

A spring is used in a newton meter. The total length of the spring increases by 2 cm when a force of 4 N acts on it. Which of the following statements is correct? 

This boat is floating on the surface of the water. The boat has a mass of 120 kg and passengers have a total mass of 80 kg. What is the size of the upthrust acting on the boat?

Content guidance

Risk assessment required - equipment

Adult supervision required

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.

Pressure

Lesson outcome

Content guidance

This lesson will be removed by end of Summer Term 2025.