Physics – 1.8 Pressure | e-Consult

When lifting a heavy object with a tool, the weight of the object is distributed over the area of the tool's surface. The weight of the object is due to gravity, and is represented by the force acting downwards. The force exerted by gravity is equal to the mass of the object multiplied by the acceleration due to gravity (F = mg).

A tool with a large surface area spreads the force (the weight of the object) over a larger area. This results in a lower pressure. A lower pressure means that the force exerted by the tool on the ground is also lower. This is safer because it reduces the risk of the tool slipping or sinking into the ground, which could cause injury or damage.

In essence: A large surface area distributes the force over a larger area, reducing the pressure and preventing the tool from sinking or slipping. This makes lifting heavy objects safer. The relationship between pressure, force, and area is crucial here; a larger area means lower pressure, and therefore a more stable and safer lifting experience.