# A diver descends from the surface of the sea to the seabed. Explain why the pressure acting on the diver increases as the diver descends.

> Edexcel GCSE Physics (1PH0) — 15.1 Forces and matter (Phys only) · Explain · 4 marks

> A scuba diver enters the sea at the surface and swims vertically downwards to the seabed, which is 30 metres below the surface.

## Mark scheme (4 marks)

1. Greater depth means there is a greater height/weight of fluid (water/sea) above the diver
2. The greater weight of water above results in a greater (downward) force on the diver
3. Pressure is force divided by area, so a greater force (over the same area of the diver's body) means greater pressure
4. The fluid (seawater) exerts a pressure force perpendicular to all surfaces of the diver / pressure acts in all directions in a fluid

## Key terms

- [pressure](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/glossary/pressure)

## Related

- [Revision notes for Edexcel GCSE Physics (1PH0)](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/learn)
- [How to answer "Explain" questions](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/tools/command-word-cheatsheet)
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Source: [GradeNine](https://www.gradenine.co.uk/q/a-diver-descends-from-the-surface-fa9d8ef6) · Published by Druglandscape Ltd.