How is pressure defined in mechanical terms?

Pressure in mechanical terms is defined as the amount of force applied per unit area. This foundational concept helps in understanding how forces interact with surfaces. When force is distributed over a larger area, the pressure exerted decreases, while pressure increases when the same force is concentrated over a smaller area. This principle is essential in various applications, including engineering and biomechanics, where it affects material performance, comfort, and safety.

Understanding pressure is particularly important in the context of assistive technology, as it relates to designing devices that manage forces on the body to prevent injury or discomfort. For instance, in wheelchair design, proper pressure management can prevent pressure sores, emphasizing the need to understand how force interacts with surfaces.