Pressure at different depths and heights
I can describe how the pressure changes at different depths underwater and heights in the atmosphere.
Pressure at different depths and heights
I can describe how the pressure changes at different depths underwater and heights in the atmosphere.
Lesson details
Key learning points
- The bigger the surface area of a boat’s hull, the bigger the upthrust on it can be.
- Pressure in liquid increases with depth because there is more liquid pushing down.
- Pressure in the atmosphere reduces with height because there is less air pushing down.
Common misconception
Pressure is greater at the bottom of a wider container than at the bottom of a narrower one.
Discuss how the force of water in the wider container is acting over a bigger area and refer to pressure = force ÷ area.
Keywords
Upthrust - A force acting upwards due to pressure is an upthrust.
Pressure - The pressure on a surface is the effect of a force acting over an area.
Depth - Depth is the distance under the surface of a liquid.
Atmospheric pressure - Atmospheric pressure is the pressure caused by the atmosphere, this decreases with height.
Content guidance
- Risk assessment required - equipment
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
This content is © Oak National Academy Limited (2024), licensed on Open Government Licence version 3.0 except where otherwise stated. See Oak's terms & conditions (Collection 2).
Video
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Starter quiz
6 Questions
Exit quiz
6 Questions
upthrust -
a force acting upwards due to pressure differences
pressure -
the effect of a force acting over an area
depth -
the distance under the surface of a liquid
atmospheric pressure -
the pressure caused by the air in the atmosphere