Understanding Pressure: Definitions and Units

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the definitions and units of pressure, specifically identifying which units apply. Key units confirmed as applicable include Newtons per square meter, pascals, and the concept of force per unit area. The incorrect units identified are kg per cubic meter and mass per unit volume, as these relate to density rather than pressure. The logic used to determine pressure units emphasizes that pressure is defined as force applied over an area, exemplified by psi (pounds per square inch).

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of pressure concepts
  • Familiarity with units of measurement, specifically SI units
  • Basic knowledge of force and area relationships
  • Awareness of common pressure units like psi and pascals
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the derivation and applications of pascals in fluid mechanics
  • Learn about the conversion between psi and pascals
  • Explore the role of pressure in various scientific fields, such as physics and engineering
  • Study the implications of pressure measurements in real-world applications, such as meteorology and hydraulics
USEFUL FOR

Students studying physics, engineers working with fluid dynamics, and anyone interested in understanding pressure measurements and their applications.

BMWPower06
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Homework Statement


Which of the following definitions or units apply to pressure?
True False Newtons per square meter
True False kg per cubic meter
True False pascals
True False force per unit area
True False mass per unit volume


The Attempt at a Solution


My answers are in bold, says my answers are wrong, anyone know what I am doing wrong, from what i found in my textbook i got these answers.
 
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I am not sure if this is helpful for everyone or not, but consider the logic I often use when determining which units are indicative of pressure. That logic is as follows:

A typical unit of pressure in the USA is psi (pounds per square inch). I know pounds is a measure of force (not mass) and a square inch is a measure of area. Thus, pressure units must carry the form of force per area.

I hope this helps.

BMWPower06 said:

Homework Statement


Which of the following definitions or units apply to pressure?
True False Newtons per square meter
True False kg per cubic meter
True False pascals
True False force per unit area
True False mass per unit volume


The Attempt at a Solution


My answers are in bold, says my answers are wrong, anyone know what I am doing wrong, from what i found in my textbook i got these answers.
 
CaptainZappo said:
I am not sure if this is helpful for everyone or not, but consider the logic I often use when determining which units are indicative of pressure. That logic is as follows:

A typical unit of pressure in the USA is psi (pounds per square inch). I know pounds is a measure of force (not mass) and a square inch is a measure of area. Thus, pressure units must carry the form of force per area.

I hope this helps.

Well when u put it like that it all makes sense, Thanks got the right answer:smile:
 

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