Is Pressure a Scalar Despite Acting in All Directions?

Thread starter AllenHe
Start date Sep 9, 2011
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Pressure Scalar Vector

In summary, pressure is a scalar quantity that is measured in units such as Pascals, atmospheres, pounds per square inch, or millimeters of mercury. It is determined by the amount of force per unit area and can be affected by the applied force, surface area, and properties of the substance or object. According to Boyle's Law, there is an inverse relationship between pressure and volume, meaning that as one increases, the other decreases.

Sep 9, 2011

AllenHe

Homework Statement

how come pressure have directions, and yet is a scalar quantity?

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

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Sep 9, 2011

Darth Frodo

Because it acts in ALL direction simultaneously, no SPECIFIC direction.

Related to Is Pressure a Scalar Despite Acting in All Directions?

1. What is pressure?

Pressure is defined as the force per unit area applied in a direction perpendicular to the surface of an object or substance.

2. Is pressure a scalar or vector quantity?

Pressure is a scalar quantity, meaning it has magnitude but no direction. This is because it is determined by the amount of force per unit area, rather than a specific direction of force.

3. How is pressure measured?

Pressure can be measured in a variety of units, such as Pascals (Pa), atmospheres (atm), pounds per square inch (psi), or millimeters of mercury (mmHg). The most common tool used to measure pressure is a barometer.

4. What factors affect pressure?

The factors that affect pressure include the amount of force applied, the surface area over which the force is applied, and the type and properties of the substance or object that is being pressured.

5. What is the relationship between pressure and volume?

According to Boyle's Law, the pressure of a gas is inversely proportional to its volume. This means that as the volume of a gas decreases, its pressure increases, and vice versa. This relationship is often described as pressure and volume having an inverse relationship.