Trampoline Physics: Understanding Pressure Distribution

What happens to the pressure exerted on a trampoline when someone sits on it compared to when they are standing on it?

A. The pressure is higher when someone sits on a trampoline

B. The pressure is lower when someone sits on a trampoline

Answer:

A. The pressure is higher when someone sits on a trampoline

When someone sits on a trampoline, the pressure exerted on the trampoline is higher compared to when they are standing on it.

Explanation:

Pressure is defined as force per unit area. When a person sits on a trampoline, their weight is concentrated on a smaller area compared to when they are standing. This increases the force exerted on the trampoline, leading to a higher pressure.

For example, if a person weighs 120 pounds and stands with two feet on the trampoline, the pressure per foot would be 60 pounds/ft². However, if the person sits down, their weight is still the same, but now concentrated on a smaller area, leading to a higher pressure per unit area.

Therefore, when someone sits on a trampoline, the pressure exerted on it is higher due to the concentrated force on a smaller area.