FORCE AND PRESSURE

What Is Relation Between Force and Pressure Class 8: Explained Simply

By ConceptScroll Team · Published on 19 June 2026 · 4 min read

In Class 8 Science, understanding what is relation between force and pressure class 8 is essential. Pressure depends on the force applied and the area over which it acts. This blog explains these concepts clearly with examples and formulas to help you excel in your NCERT exams.

Understanding Force: The Push or Pull

Force is a push or pull that can change the state of motion of an object. It is a vector quantity, meaning it has both magnitude and direction. In Class 8 Science, force is measured in newtons (N). Examples include pushing a door, pulling a rope, or gravity pulling objects down.

Key points about force:

  • Causes objects to start moving, stop, or change direction
  • Can be contact force (like friction) or non-contact force (like gravity)
  • Measured using a spring balance

Understanding force is the first step to grasping how pressure works, as pressure depends on the force applied.

Defining Pressure: Force Spread Over an Area

Pressure is the force applied per unit area on a surface. It tells us how much force acts on each part of the surface. The formula for pressure is:

$$Pressure = \frac{Force}{Area}$$

Where:

  • Pressure is in pascals (Pa)
  • Force is in newtons (N)
  • Area is in square meters (m²)

For example, if you press your finger on a table, the pressure depends on how hard you press (force) and the size of your fingertip (area). Smaller area with the same force means higher pressure.

Pressure helps explain why sharp knives cut better than blunt ones and why high heels can damage floors.

Want to test yourself on Force and Pressure? Try our free quiz →

What Is Relation Between Force and Pressure Class 8: Explained

The relation between force and pressure is simple but important:

  • Pressure is directly proportional to the force applied
  • Pressure is inversely proportional to the area over which the force is applied

Mathematically:

$$P = \frac{F}{A}$$

Where:

  • $P$ is pressure
  • $F$ is force
  • $A$ is area

This means:

  • If force increases and area stays the same, pressure increases
  • If area increases and force stays the same, pressure decreases

This relation helps us understand many real-life situations, such as why snowshoes have large surfaces to reduce pressure and prevent sinking into snow.

Comparison of Force and Pressure

Here is a simple comparison table to clarify the difference and relation between force and pressure:

AspectForcePressure
DefinitionA push or pull on an objectForce applied per unit area
UnitNewton (N)Pascal (Pa)
Depends onMagnitude and directionForce and area of contact
NatureVector quantityScalar quantity
FormulaNot defined by area$P = \frac{F}{A}$
EffectChanges motion or shapeDetermines intensity of force

Understanding this comparison helps Class 8 students grasp the concepts clearly for exams.

Worked Example: Calculating Pressure

Let's solve a simple example to understand the relation between force and pressure:

Example:

A force of 20 newtons is applied on a surface area of 4 square meters. Calculate the pressure exerted.

Solution:

Given:

  • Force, $F = 20$ N
  • Area, $A = 4$ m²

Using the formula:

$$P = \frac{F}{A} = \frac{20}{4} = 5 \text{ Pa}$$

So, the pressure exerted on the surface is 5 pascals.

This example shows how increasing area reduces pressure for the same force.

Importance of Understanding Pressure in Daily Life

Knowing the relation between force and pressure helps explain many everyday phenomena:

  • Sharp knives cut easily: Because they apply force over a small area, increasing pressure.
  • Snowshoes prevent sinking: They spread force over a large area, reducing pressure.
  • High heels damage floors: They apply force over a small area, increasing pressure.
  • Inflating tires: Pressure inside tires supports the vehicle’s weight.

In Class 8 NCERT Science, these examples help students connect theory to real life, making learning more interesting and practical.

Frequently asked questions

What is the formula relating force and pressure?

Pressure equals force divided by area, $P = \frac{F}{A}$.

How does pressure change if force increases?

Pressure increases proportionally if force increases and area stays constant.

Why does pressure decrease if area increases?

Because pressure is force divided by area, increasing area lowers pressure.

What are the units of force and pressure?

Force is measured in newtons (N), pressure in pascals (Pa).

Can pressure exist without force?

No, pressure is caused by force applied over an area.

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