Force vs. Pressure: The Core Distinction
Force is the total push or pull acting on an object, measured in Newtons (N). It's a vector quantity, meaning it has both magnitude and direction. Pressure is the amount of force applied perpendicular to the surface of an object, distributed over a specific area. It is a scalar quantity measured in Pascals (Pa), or Newtons per square meter (N/m²).
An Everyday Example
Consider pushing a thumbtack into a corkboard. The force you apply with your thumb is the same on both the flat head and the sharp point. However, the pressure exerted by the sharp point is immense because that force is concentrated on a tiny area, allowing it to easily pierce the board. The pressure on your thumb is low because the same force is spread across the much larger area of the tack's head.