  The lattice parameters of MgB2 up to pressures of 8 GPa were determined using
high-resolution x-ray powder diffraction in a diamond anvil cell. The bulk
modulus, B0, was determined to be 151 +-5 GPa. Both experimental and
first-principles calculations indicate nearly isotropic mechanical behavior
under pressure. This small anisotropy is in contrast to the 2 dimensional
nature of the boron pi states. The pressure dependence of the density of states
at the Fermi level and a reasonable value for the average phonon frequency
account within the context of BCS theory for the reduction of Tc under
pressure.
