How is pressure defined in terms of force and area?

Pressure is defined as the force applied per unit area. It quantifies the amount of force distributed over a specific area. The formula for pressure is expressed as ( P = \frac{F}{A} ), where ( P ) represents pressure, ( F ) is the force exerted, and ( A ) is the area over which the force is distributed. This definition is fundamental in various applications, including fluid mechanics and engineering, as it helps to understand how forces act on surfaces at rest or in motion, and is essential for the safe design and operation of equipment like boilers and pressure vessels.

In contrast, the other terms mentioned have distinct meanings: acceleration refers to the rate of change of velocity, weight is the force acting on an object due to gravity, and friction pertains to the resistance encountered when two surfaces move against each other. These terms do not describe the specific relationship between force and area inherent in the concept of pressure, which is why the definition associated with pressure is the only appropriate answer.