Question

A rectangular glass block of dimensions 8.0 cm by 15.0 cm by 3.0cm weighs 10.5 N. Calculate the
minimum and the maximum pressure the block can exert when it rests on a horizontal plane.

Answer 1

Explanation:

The pressure can be solved using the following formula:

P = mg / A

Where: P = pressure mg = mass * gravity = W = 10.5 N

A = 1*w

Solving for A (maximum):

A = 8*3

A = 24 sq. cm

Solving for A (minimum):

A = 15*8

A = 120 sq. cm

Substituting into the first equation:

Pmax = 10.5 N / 24 sq.cm Pmax = 0.4375 Pa

Pmin = 10.5 N / 120 sq.cm

Pmin = 0.0875 Pa