Bernoulli Application: Explaining How a Dime Blows Across a Table

  • Thread starter alik
  • Start date
  • Tags
    Bernoulli
In summary, the Bernoulli principle explains how a little effort can be used to blow a dime across a table and make it land in a cup. This is due to the equation (qv^2)/2 +qgh + p = const, where the pressure on the side being blown on is higher than the pressure on the side being pulled along due to friction.
  • #1
alik
6
0

Homework Statement



With a little effort we can blow across a dime on a table and make it land in a cup, but how can it be explained? I know that is because the bernoulli princle
(qv^2)/2 +qgh + p = const

Homework Equations



but what happens with pressure during this action?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
alik said:

Homework Statement



With a little effort we can blow across a dime on a table and make it land in a cup, but how can it be explained? I know that is because the bernoulli princle
(qv^2)/2 +qgh + p = const

Homework Equations



but what happens with pressure during this action?

the dime has a cross sectional profile, the side your blowing experiences a pressure equal to the first term in your equation
 
  • #3




The Bernoulli principle is a fundamental concept in fluid dynamics that explains the relationship between the flow velocity of a fluid and its pressure. In this situation, when you blow across the dime on the table, you are creating a flow of air over the surface of the dime. This flow of air causes a decrease in pressure on the upper surface of the dime, while the pressure on the lower surface remains relatively constant. This pressure difference creates a lifting force that causes the dime to move in the direction of the lower pressure, ultimately landing in the cup.

As for the specific equation mentioned, it is known as the Bernoulli equation and it relates the total energy of a fluid, including its kinetic energy, potential energy, and pressure energy, to be constant along a streamline. In this case, the Bernoulli equation can be applied to explain the decrease in pressure on the upper surface of the dime due to the flow of air.

It is important to note that the Bernoulli principle is not the only factor at play in this situation. Other factors, such as the shape and weight of the dime, as well as the characteristics of the air flow, also contribute to the dime's movement. However, the Bernoulli principle provides a strong explanation for the observed phenomenon of the dime blowing across the table and landing in the cup.
 

FAQ: Bernoulli Application: Explaining How a Dime Blows Across a Table

How does the Bernoulli principle explain the movement of a dime blowing across a table?

The Bernoulli principle states that as the speed of a fluid (such as air) increases, its pressure decreases. In the case of a dime blowing across a table, the air moving over the top of the dime has a higher speed than the air moving underneath it, creating a difference in air pressure. This difference in pressure causes the dime to move in the direction of lower pressure, which is towards the higher speed air.

What other factors besides air speed can affect the movement of a dime using the Bernoulli principle?

The density of the fluid and the shape of the object can also affect the movement of a dime using the Bernoulli principle. A lighter dime or a denser fluid will result in a greater difference in pressure and thus a stronger force on the dime. Similarly, a streamlined shape will create a smoother flow of air and a greater difference in pressure, resulting in a stronger force on the dime.

How does the Bernoulli principle apply to other objects besides a dime?

The Bernoulli principle can be applied to any object that is moving through a fluid, including airplanes, boats, and even cars. The shape and speed of the object and the density of the fluid will all affect the forces created by the Bernoulli principle.

Are there any practical applications of the Bernoulli principle besides explaining the movement of objects?

Yes, the Bernoulli principle has many practical applications in various fields such as engineering, aerodynamics, and hydrodynamics. It is used to design and improve the efficiency of airplane wings, wind turbines, and even sports equipment like golf balls.

Is the Bernoulli principle the only factor at play in the movement of a dime blowing across a table?

No, there are other factors that can affect the movement of a dime, such as air resistance and turbulence. These factors can also impact the speed and direction of the dime, and may even counteract the effects of the Bernoulli principle in some cases.

Similar threads

How Does Bernoulli's Principle Apply to Varying Pipe Diameters and Water Flow?
Replies
3
Views
2K
I Help Regarding Application of Bernoulli in a Boundary Layer
Replies
1
Views
2K
How Does Bernoulli's Equation Apply to Hurricane Wind Pressures on a Roof?
Replies
4
Views
14K
Solve Bernoulli Problem: Mass of Water in Tube
Replies
9
Views
2K
Bernoulli equation (watering can)
Replies
2
Views
1K
Understanding the Bernoulli Equation: Solving a Fluid Dynamics Problem
Replies
25
Views
4K
Pressure in tank pipe -- Bernoulli Equations
Replies
3
Views
3K
The Venturi Effect cannot explain how an eductor works
Replies
2
Views
3K
Archived Explaining drag is proportional to speed squared with Bernouilli's Equation
Replies
1
Views
3K
Bernoulli's law for water coming out of a faucet
Replies
8
Views
8K

Hot Threads

Recent Insights

Back
Top