Important Questions Class 8 Science Chapter 6: Pressure, Winds, Storms, And Cyclones

Pressure tells how much force acts on a given area of a surface. Air and water exert pressure, and pressure differences cause winds to move. Storms, lightning, and cyclones form when air pressure, heat, moisture, and wind interact strongly.

Wind can bend trees, lift dust, slam doors, and damage roofs because moving air exerts force. Important Questions Class 8 Science Chapter 6 help students revise pressure, atmospheric pressure, liquid pressure, wind formation, thunderstorms, lightning, and cyclones through solved answers. CBSE 2026 expects students to connect formulas with daily examples, such as broad bag straps, overhead tanks, suction cups, balloons, dams, sea breeze, land breeze, and cyclone warnings. The NCERT Class 8 Science Chapter 6 includes conceptual questions, numericals, activity-based reasoning, safety questions, and weather-related applications.

Key Takeaways

  • Pressure: Pressure equals force divided by area.
  • Liquid Pressure: Liquid pressure increases with the height of the liquid column.
  • Air Pressure: Air moves from a high-pressure region to a low-pressure region.
  • Cyclone Safety: IMD warnings help reduce cyclone damage in India.

Important Questions Class 8 Science Chapter 6 Structure 2026

Principle Application Unit
Pressure Force acting on unit area Pa or N/m²
Atmospheric Pressure Air pressure around Earth mb or hPa
Cyclone Formation Low pressure over warm oceans Wind speed

Pressure Winds Storms And Cyclones Class 8 Extra Questions With Answers

These pressure winds storms and cyclones class 8 extra questions with answers cover the main ideas from NCERT 2026.
They focus on pressure, moving air, thunderstorms, lightning, and cyclone formation.

Q1. What Is Pressure?

Pressure is the force acting per unit area on a surface. It increases when the same force acts on a smaller area.

  1. Given Data:
    Force = F
    Area = A
  2. Formula Used:
    Pressure = Force / Area
  3. Explanation:
    A sharp knife cuts better because its edge has a very small area.
    The same force creates greater pressure on the apple.
  4. Final Result:
    Pressure = Force / Area

Q2. Why Does A School Bag With Broad Straps Feel More Comfortable?

Broad straps reduce pressure on the shoulders. They spread the bag’s weight over a larger area.

  1. Given Data:
    Weight of bag = Same
    Area of broad strap = Larger
    Area of narrow strap = Smaller
  2. Formula Used:
    Pressure = Force / Area
  3. Explanation:
    Larger area gives smaller pressure for the same force.
    Narrow straps press harder on a smaller shoulder area.
  4. Final Result:
    Broad straps reduce shoulder pressure

Q3. Why Is It Easier To Cut An Apple With A Sharp Knife?

A sharp knife cuts easily because its edge has a small area. The small contact area produces high pressure.

  1. Given Data:
    Force applied = Same
    Area of sharp edge = Small
    Area of blunt edge = Large
  2. Formula Used:
    Pressure = Force / Area
  3. Explanation:
    Smaller area gives greater pressure.
    The sharp edge enters the apple more easily.
  4. Final Result:
    Sharp edge produces higher pressure

Q4. Why Is The Base Of A Dam Broader Than Its Top?

A dam has a broad base because water pressure increases with depth. Water near the bottom pushes harder on the dam wall.

  1. Given Data:
    Water depth near base = Greater
    Water depth near top = Smaller
  2. Formula Used:
    Liquid pressure increases with height of liquid column.
  3. Explanation:
    Deeper water creates more pressure on the dam wall.
    A broad base helps the dam withstand this large pressure.
  4. Final Result:
    Dam bases are broad to resist high water pressure

Pressure Winds Storms And Cyclones Class 8 Important Questions

These pressure winds storms and cyclones class 8 important questions test direct NCERT concepts.
Students should write definitions first and then add one clear example.

Q5. What Is Atmospheric Pressure?

Atmospheric pressure is the pressure exerted by air around us. The atmosphere extends many kilometres above Earth’s surface.

  1. Given Data:
    Atmosphere = Air surrounding Earth
    Air contains = Nitrogen, oxygen, carbon dioxide, argon, and other gases
  2. Formula Used:
    Pressure = Force / Area
  3. Explanation:
    Air has weight and pushes objects from all directions.
    Our body pressure balances this outside air pressure.
  4. Final Result:
    Atmospheric pressure is air pressure around us

Q6. Why Are We Not Crushed By Atmospheric Pressure?

We are not crushed because pressure inside our body balances atmospheric pressure. Body fluids and gases create internal pressure.

  1. Given Data:
    Outside pressure = Atmospheric pressure
    Inside pressure = Body pressure
  2. Formula Used:
    Balanced pressure gives no crushing effect.
  3. Explanation:
    Air pushes our body from outside.
    Internal pressure pushes outward and balances it.
  4. Final Result:
    Balanced pressure protects the body

Q7. Why Does A Rubber Sucker Stick To A Smooth Surface?

A rubber sucker sticks because outside air pressure becomes greater than inside pressure. Pressing it removes much air inside.

  1. Given Data:
    Air inside sucker = Reduced
    Air outside sucker = More pressure
  2. Formula Used:
    Pressure difference creates force.
  3. Explanation:
    Outside air pushes the sucker against the surface.
    A rough surface lets air enter and weakens the grip.
  4. Final Result:
    Higher outside air pressure holds the sucker

Q8. Why Are Overhead Water Tanks Placed At A Height?

Overhead water tanks are placed high to increase water pressure in taps. A taller water column creates higher pressure.

  1. Given Data:
    Height of tank = More
    Water pressure at tap = More
  2. Formula Used:
    Liquid pressure depends on height of liquid column.
  3. Explanation:
    Water from a high tank pushes down with greater pressure.
    This gives a stronger water stream from taps.
  4. Final Result:
    Greater height gives greater water pressure

Class 8 Pressure Winds Storms And Cyclones Extra Questions

These class 8 pressure winds storms and cyclones extra questions connect textbook theory with real examples.
They help students handle assertion, reasoning, and activity-based questions.

Q9. What Causes Wind?

Wind forms when air moves from a high-pressure region to a low-pressure region. Pressure difference drives air movement.

  1. Given Data:
    Region A = High pressure
    Region B = Low pressure
  2. Formula Used:
    Air moves from high pressure to low pressure.
  3. Explanation:
    Warm air rises and creates low pressure.
    Cooler air moves in to take its place.
  4. Final Result:
    Pressure difference causes wind

Q10. How Does Sea Breeze Form During The Day?

Sea breeze forms when cool air from the sea moves towards warm land. Land heats faster than water during the day.

  1. Given Data:
    Land = Warmer, low pressure
    Sea = Cooler, high pressure
  2. Formula Used:
    Air moves from high pressure to low pressure.
  3. Explanation:
    Warm air over land rises.
    Cooler sea air moves towards land.
  4. Final Result:
    Sea breeze blows from sea to land

Q11. How Does Land Breeze Form At Night?

Land breeze forms when cool air from land moves towards warmer sea. Land cools faster than water at night.

  1. Given Data:
    Land = Cooler, high pressure
    Sea = Warmer, low pressure
  2. Formula Used:
    Air moves from high pressure to low pressure.
  3. Explanation:
    Warm air over the sea rises.
    Cooler land air moves towards the sea.
  4. Final Result:
    Land breeze blows from land to sea

Q12. Why Do High-Speed Winds Reduce Air Pressure?

High-speed winds create lower pressure in the region where they move fast. Surrounding higher pressure then pushes nearby objects.

  1. Given Data:
    Air speed = High
    Pressure in fast-moving region = Low
  2. Formula Used:
    High-speed wind lowers air pressure.
  3. Explanation:
    When air moves quickly between two balloons, pressure between them decreases.
    Higher outside pressure pushes the balloons together.
  4. Final Result:
    Fast-moving air creates lower pressure

Pressure Winds Storms And Cyclones Extra Questions Class 8

These pressure winds storms and cyclones extra questions class 8 include higher-value application questions.
They are useful for CBSE 2026 school tests and worksheet practice.

Q13. Why Can Strong Winds Blow Away Roofs?

Strong winds can blow away roofs because they reduce pressure above the roof. Higher pressure inside pushes the roof upward.

  1. Given Data:
    Pressure above roof = Lower
    Pressure below roof = Higher
  2. Formula Used:
    Pressure difference creates force.
  3. Explanation:
    Fast wind over the roof creates low pressure.
    Air inside the house pushes the roof upward.
  4. Final Result:
    Large pressure difference can lift weak roofs

Q14. Why Should Doors And Windows Stay Open During Very Strong Storms?

Open doors and windows reduce pressure difference during strong storms. Air can pass through the house more evenly.

  1. Given Data:
    Closed house = Large pressure difference
    Open house = Smaller pressure difference
  2. Formula Used:
    Pressure difference decides lifting force.
  3. Explanation:
    Wind above the roof lowers outside pressure.
    Openings reduce the pressure gap between inside and outside.
  4. Final Result:
    Openings reduce roof-lifting pressure difference

Q15. How Is Lightning Formed?

Lightning forms when separated electric charges suddenly flow through air. It may occur within clouds or between clouds and ground.

  1. Given Data:
    Upper cloud = Positive charges
    Lower cloud = Negative charges
    Ground = Positive charges
  2. Formula Used:
    Large charge separation causes sudden discharge.
  3. Explanation:
    Strong winds make water droplets and ice particles rub.
    This rubbing separates electric charges inside clouds.
  4. Final Result:
    Lightning is a sudden electric discharge

Q16. What Is Thunder?

Thunder is the loud sound produced when lightning heats air suddenly. The heated air expands rapidly.

  1. Given Data:
    Lightning = Sudden electric discharge
    Air around lightning = Heated quickly
  2. Formula Used:
    Rapid expansion of air creates sound.
  3. Explanation:
    Lightning heats the nearby air in a very short time.
    The sudden expansion produces a loud sound wave.
  4. Final Result:
    Thunder is the sound caused by lightning-heated air

Questions On Pressure Winds Storms And Cyclones Class 8

These questions on pressure winds storms and cyclones class 8 check the complete chapter flow.
They include storms, thunderstorms, cyclones, and safety rules.

Q17. What Is A Storm?

A storm is strong wind accompanied by rain, hail, or snow. It forms when warm moist air rises and cools.

  1. Given Data:
    Warm moist air = Rises
    Rising air = Cools
    Water vapour = Condenses
  2. Formula Used:
    Condensation forms clouds and rain.
  3. Explanation:
    Warm air rises due to low pressure.
    Moisture condenses into droplets that fall as rain.
  4. Final Result:
    Strong winds with rain form a storm

Q18. What Is A Thunderstorm?

A thunderstorm is a storm accompanied by lightning and thunder. It forms under hot, humid, and windy conditions.

  1. Given Data:
    Moisture = Present
    Strong upward and downward winds = Present
    Charge separation = Present
  2. Formula Used:
    Storm + lightning + thunder = Thunderstorm
  3. Explanation:
    Ice particles and water droplets rub inside clouds.
    Charge discharge creates lightning and thunder.
  4. Final Result:
    A thunderstorm includes storm, lightning, and thunder

Q19. What Safety Steps Should Students Follow During Lightning?

Students should stay away from tall objects during lightning. They should crouch low in an open low-lying area.

  1. Given Data:
    Lightning risk = Tall objects, water, metal rods
  2. Formula Used:
    Reduce contact with ground and avoid conductors.
  3. Explanation:
    Do not stand under trees.
    Do not use umbrellas with metallic rods.
  4. Final Result:
    A closed car or bus offers better safety during lightning

Q20. What Is A Lightning Conductor?

A lightning conductor is a metal rod that transfers lightning charges safely into the ground. It protects buildings from damage.

  1. Given Data:
    Rod = Metallic
    Top end = Pointed and high
    Lower end = Buried in ground
  2. Formula Used:
    Metal provides an easy path for charge flow.
  3. Explanation:
    Lightning charges pass through the rod.
    They reach the ground without damaging the building.
  4. Final Result:
    Lightning conductors protect buildings

Class 8 Science Pressure Winds Storms And Cyclones Extra Questions

These class 8 science pressure winds storms and cyclones extra questions include short and long answers.
They build better understanding through daily-life explanations and CBSE-style reasoning.

Q21. How Is Cyclone Formed?

A cyclone forms over warm ocean water when moist air rises and creates very low pressure. Earth’s rotation makes the winds spin.

  1. Given Data:
    Ocean water = Warm
    Moist air = Rises
    Centre = Very low pressure
    Earth’s rotation = Causes spinning
  2. Formula Used:
    Warm ocean + moist air + low pressure + rotation = Cyclone
  3. Explanation:
    Rising moist air cools and condenses.
    Condensation releases heat and strengthens upward air movement.
  4. Final Result:
    A cyclone is a spinning storm over warm ocean water

Q22. What Is The Eye Of A Cyclone?

The eye of a cyclone is the calm central region of lowest pressure. The strongest winds occur around the eye.

  1. Given Data:
    Centre of cyclone = Lowest pressure
    Surrounding region = Strong winds and heavy rain
  2. Formula Used:
    Cyclone structure has calm eye and violent surrounding winds.
  3. Explanation:
    Air rotates around the low-pressure centre.
    The centre stays calmer than the surrounding storm bands.
  4. Final Result:
    The eye is the calm centre of a cyclone

Q23. Why Do Cyclones Become Weak After Reaching Land?

Cyclones weaken after reaching land because they lose warm moist air from the ocean. This cuts their main energy source.

  1. Given Data:
    Ocean = Moist air source
    Land = Less moisture supply
  2. Formula Used:
    Cyclone strength depends on warm moist air.
  3. Explanation:
    Warm ocean water supplies heat and moisture.
    Land interrupts this supply and weakens the storm.
  4. Final Result:
    Cyclones weaken when ocean moisture supply stops

Q24. Why Are Cyclones Dangerous For Coastal Areas?

Cyclones are dangerous because they bring high-speed winds, heavy rain, storm surges, and flooding. They damage homes, farms, roads, and water sources.

  1. Given Data:
    Wind speed = Very high
    Rainfall = Heavy
    Sea water = Pushed inland
  2. Formula Used:
    Cyclone hazards = Wind + rain + storm surge
  3. Explanation:
    Strong winds break trees and buildings.
    Storm surges flood coastal land with seawater.
  4. Final Result:
    Cyclones can damage life, property, and farmland

Class 8 Science Chapter 6 Questions And Answers

These class 8 science chapter 6 questions and answers follow the NCERT Reprint 2026-27 concepts.
They include calculation-based and explanation-based questions from pressure and weather phenomena.

Q25. Calculate The Pressure If A Force Of 100 N Acts On An Area Of 2 m².

The pressure is 50 N/m². Divide force by area to find pressure.

  1. Given Data:
    Force = 100 N
    Area = 2 m²
  2. Formula Used:
    Pressure = Force / Area
  3. Calculation:
    Pressure = 100 / 2
    Pressure = 50 N/m²
  4. Final Result:
    Pressure = 50 N/m² or 50 Pa

Q26. An Elephant Weighs 20000 N And Stands On Four Feet. Each Foot Covers 0.25 m². Find Pressure.

The elephant exerts 20000 N/m² pressure on the ground. First find total contact area.

  1. Given Data:
    Weight = 20000 N
    Area of one foot = 0.25 m²
    Number of feet = 4
  2. Formula Used:
    Total area = Area of one foot × 4
    Pressure = Force / Area
  3. Calculation:
    Total area = 0.25 × 4 = 1 m²
    Pressure = 20000 / 1
    Pressure = 20000 N/m²
  4. Final Result:
    Pressure = 20000 N/m² or 20000 Pa

Q27. Boat A Has Area 7 m² With 5 Persons. Boat B Has Area 3.5 m² With 3 Persons. Each Person Weighs 700 N. Which Boat Has More Pressure?

Boat B experiences more pressure by 100 N/m². Smaller base area creates higher pressure.

  1. Given Data:
    Boat A area = 7 m²
    Boat A persons = 5
    Boat B area = 3.5 m²
    Boat B persons = 3
    Weight of each person = 700 N
  2. Formula Used:
    Total force = Number of persons × Weight of each person
    Pressure = Force / Area
  3. Calculation:
    Boat A force = 5 × 700 = 3500 N
    Boat A pressure = 3500 / 7 = 500 N/m²
    Boat B force = 3 × 700 = 2100 N
    Boat B pressure = 2100 / 3.5 = 600 N/m²
  4. Final Result:
    Boat B has 100 N/m² more pressure

Q28. Why Does A Boy Sink More When Standing On Sand Than Lying On Sand?

The boy sinks more while standing because his weight acts on a smaller area. Smaller area creates greater pressure.

  1. Given Data:
    Force = Body weight
    Standing area = Small
    Lying area = Large
  2. Formula Used:
    Pressure = Force / Area
  3. Explanation:
    The same body weight acts in both positions.
    Standing increases pressure because the contact area is smaller.
  4. Final Result:
    Standing creates higher pressure on sand

Class 8 Science Chapter 6 Extra Questions And Answers

These class 8 science chapter 6 extra questions and answers cover reasoning-based NCERT patterns.
They are useful for short notes, worksheet answers, and oral revision.

Q29. Why Do Liquids Exert Pressure In All Directions?

Liquids exert pressure in all directions because their particles can move and push container walls. Water flows out from side holes due to side pressure.

  1. Given Data:
    Liquid = Water
    Container = Bottle with holes
  2. Formula Used:
    Liquid pressure acts on bottom and sides.
  3. Explanation:
    Water pushes the bottle walls.
    It also pushes the bottom of the bottle.
  4. Final Result:
    Liquids exert pressure in all directions

Q30. Why Do Holes In Banners And Hoardings Reduce Wind Damage?

Holes allow wind to pass through banners and hoardings. This reduces the pressure difference on both sides.

  1. Given Data:
    Solid hoarding = More wind pressure
    Hoarding with holes = Less wind pressure
  2. Formula Used:
    Lower pressure difference reduces force.
  3. Explanation:
    Wind cannot pass easily through a solid banner.
    Holes reduce the force acting on it.
  4. Final Result:
    Holes reduce wind pressure on banners

Q31. Why Does Air Escape From A Punctured Bicycle Tube?

Air escapes because pressure inside the tube is higher than outside pressure. Air moves from high pressure to low pressure.

  1. Given Data:
    Inside tube = High pressure
    Outside air = Lower pressure
  2. Formula Used:
    Air moves from high pressure to low pressure.
  3. Explanation:
    A puncture creates an opening.
    Air flows out until pressure becomes nearly equal.
  4. Final Result:
    Pressure difference makes air escape

Q32. Why Does A Balloon Inflate When We Blow Air Into It?

A balloon inflates because air inside exerts pressure on its walls. Air pressure pushes the rubber outward.

  1. Given Data:
    Air blown into balloon = More air particles
    Balloon wall = Flexible
  2. Formula Used:
    Air exerts pressure in all directions.
  3. Explanation:
    Added air pushes the inner surface.
    The balloon expands in all directions.
  4. Final Result:
    Air pressure inflates the balloon

Pressure Winds Storms And Cyclones Class 8 Worksheet

This pressure winds storms and cyclones class 8 worksheet section helps students practise mixed questions.
It includes MCQs, true or false, and one-line answers for CBSE 2026 revision.

Q33. Pressure Winds Storms And Cyclones MCQ Questions

The correct answers are based on NCERT Class 8 Science Chapter 6 concepts. Students should check the reason after each answer.

  1. Which unit represents pressure?
    (A) N
    (B) m²
    (C) Pa
    (D) kg
    Answer: (C) Pa
  2. Air flows from:
    (A) low pressure to high pressure
    (B) high pressure to low pressure
    (C) cold area to colder area only
    (D) sea to land only
    Answer: (B) high pressure to low pressure
  3. The calm centre of a cyclone is called:
    (A) edge
    (B) wall
    (C) eye
    (D) tail
    Answer: (C) eye
  4. A lightning conductor transfers electric charges to:
    (A) clouds
    (B) walls
    (C) ground
    (D) windows
    Answer: (C) ground

Q34. Pressure Winds Storms And Cyclones Short Answer Questions

These answers should begin with the main fact. One clear example improves the answer.

  1. What is pressure?
    Pressure is force per unit area. Its SI unit is pascal.
  2. What causes wind?
    Pressure difference causes wind. Air moves from high pressure to low pressure.
  3. What is atmospheric pressure?
    Atmospheric pressure is air pressure around Earth. It acts on all objects.
  4. How is lightning formed?
    Lightning forms due to sudden electric discharge. Charges build up inside clouds.
  5. How is cyclone formed?
    Cyclone forms over warm ocean water. Moist air rises and creates low pressure.

Q35. Why This Is Repeatedly Asked In CBSE Boards

This chapter links formulas with real weather events. That makes it useful for concept, reasoning, and numerical questions.

  1. Pressure questions test formula use.
  2. Water tank questions test liquid pressure.
  3. Balloon activities test air pressure.
  4. Lightning questions test charge separation.
  5. Cyclone questions test low pressure and safety.

Final Result: CBSE 2026 can ask this chapter through diagrams, activities, and case-based questions.

Class 8 Science Chapter List

Chapter No. Chapter Name
Chapter 1 Exploring the Investigative World of Science
Chapter 2 The Invisible Living World: Beyond Our Naked Eye
Chapter 3 Health: The Ultimate Treasure
Chapter 4 Electricity: Magnetic and Heating Effects
Chapter 5 Exploring Forces
Chapter 6 Pressure, Winds, Storms, and Cyclones
Chapter 7 Particulate Nature of Matter
Chapter 8 Nature of Matter: Elements, Compounds, and Mixtures
Chapter 9 The Amazing World of Solutes, Solvents, and Solutions
Chapter 10 Light: Mirrors and Lenses
Chapter 11 Keeping Time with the Skies
Chapter 12 How Nature Works in Harmony
Chapter 13 Our Home: Earth, A Unique Life Sustaining Planet

Q.1 There are four situations in which a block is experiencing a set of forces as shown below. The net force is known for each situation. However, the magnitudes of a few of the individual forces are not known.

Analyze each situation individually and determine the magnitude of the unknown forces.

Marks:5
Ans

A = 50 N, so that the horizontal forces must be balanced.
B = 200 N, so that the vertical forces must be balanced.
C = 1100 N, in order to have a net force of 900 N in the upward direction.
D = 20 N, in order to have a net force of 60 N to the left.
E = 3000 N, so that the vertical forces must be balanced.
F = H = it can take any number but the value of both of them should be equal, in order to balance the vertical forces.
G = 50 N, in order to have a net force of 30 N to the right.

Q.2 Mention three types of forces that can act from a distance.

Marks:3
Ans

Three types of forces which can act from a distance are :
1. Magnetic force.
2. Electrostatic force.
3. Gravitational force.

Q.3 Define atmospheric pressure.

Marks:1
Ans

The atmospheric air is present up to many kilometers above the surface of the earth. The pressure exerted by this air is known as atmospheric pressure.

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FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Pressure is force acting per unit area. Its formula is Pressure = Force / Area, and its SI unit is pascal.

Atmospheric pressure is the pressure exerted by air around Earth. It acts in all directions on objects and living beings.

Pressure difference causes wind. Air moves from a high-pressure region to a low-pressure region.

Lightning forms due to sudden electric discharge between opposite charges. Charge separation happens inside clouds during thunderstorms.

A cyclone forms over warm ocean water due to very low pressure. Moist rising air, heat release, and Earth’s rotation create spinning winds.