Ask an Explainer Q: What is the difference between stress and pressure? A: Pressure is a force, and stress is the result of that force being applied to a system. If pressure is applied to a metal, the metal is stressed. Think of it this way: when a huge test is comming up, you're under pressure, and you feel stressed! Posted on March 19, 2015 at 7:54 am Categories: Structures & Materials Check out other Questions and Answers