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Question 27 of 279 in Solids, Liquids and Gases

Pressure under a solid

2 marks · Normal

Explain why a drawing pin can be pushed into wood much more easily than a thumb, even if the same force is applied.

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Must show: Reference to area, Reference to higher pressure

Common mistakes: Referring only to force and not area or pressure

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Marking points

B1 · 1 mark · Mentions the drawing pin has a smaller contact area with the wood.

B2 · 1 mark · Explains that the pressure is greater with the pin, so it pushes into the wood more easily.

Worked solution

The drawing pin has a much smaller contact area than a thumb. This means the same force creates a much higher pressure, making it easier to push the pin into the wood.

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