- P = F / A — Pressure equals force divided by area (all students)
- F = P × A — Force equals pressure times area (rearrangement)
- A = F / P — Area equals force divided by pressure (rearrangement)
- P = hρg — Pressure in a liquid (Higher tier only)
- Pressure increases when: force increases OR area decreases
- Pressure decreases when: force decreases OR area increases
- Fluid pressure: acts in all directions, increases with depth, increases with density of fluid
- Atmospheric pressure: decreases with altitude because less air is above
- Upthrust occurs because pressure at the bottom of a submerged object is greater than at the top
This key facts covers Key Equations and Relationships within Pressure for GCSE Physics. Revise Pressure in Forces for GCSE Physics with 15 exam-style questions and 12 flashcards. This is a high-frequency topic, so it is worth revising until the explanation feels precise and repeatable. It is section 9 of 16 in this topic. Use this key facts to connect the idea to the wider topic before moving on to questions and flashcards.
Practice questions for Pressure
What is the correct equation for pressure?
Explain why a sharp knife cuts through food more easily than a blunt knife, even when the same force is applied to both.
Quick recall flashcards
What is pressure?
The force acting per unit area on a surface.
P = F / A
What is the equation for pressure?
P = F / A
Pressure (Pa) = Force (N) ÷ Area (m²)