Calculating Pressure at Point A Using Excess Pressure Formula

In summary, the question is asking to find the pressure at point A in a capillary tube of radius r. The excess pressure in a drop of liquid is equal to 2S/r, while the excess pressure in a bubble is equal to 4S/r. The answer is option C, which is obtained by subtracting the excess pressure (2S/r) from the atmospheric pressure (P₀). This is due to the curvature of the surface and surface tension acting within the surface. The difference in pressure on the concave and convex sides of the surface is 2S/r, as determined by an equilibrium force balance.
  • #1
Suraj M
Gold Member
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Homework Statement


Find the pressure at A.

WIN_20150212_161705.JPG

Homework Equations


Excess pressure(drop) = 2S/r
Excess pressure (bubble) = 4S/r

The Attempt at a Solution


Shouldn't it be = P₀ - hdg??
the answer is Option C.. but how?? why have they used the pressure in a drop of liquid?
 
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  • #2
Well, it's pretty hard to tell what is going on. Have you got some more explanation of what that diagram represents?
 
  • #3
Actually the question also says that it is a capillary tube of radius r. (it must be open)
so what i said : P≠P₀-hdg
Thats all the question says, DEvens.
since its just a point exposed to the atmosphere it should be P₀. But why subtract 2S/r ?
 
  • #4
Suraj M said:
Actually the question also says that it is a capillary tube of radius r. (it must be open)
so what i said : P≠P₀-hdg
Thats all the question says, DEvens.
since its just a point exposed to the atmosphere it should be P₀. But why subtract 2S/r ?
Because the surface is curved, and there is surface tension acting within the surface. To get the surface to curve that way, the pressure on the concave side of the surface must be higher than on the convex side of the surface. The difference is 2S/r. This value follows from an equilibrium force balance, either on a part of the surface or on the entire surface.

Chet
 
  • #5
Oh okay, understood. Thank you!
 

Related to Calculating Pressure at Point A Using Excess Pressure Formula

What is the excess pressure formula?

The excess pressure formula is a mathematical equation used to calculate the pressure at a specific point (Point A) in a fluid. It takes into account the density of the fluid, the acceleration due to gravity, and the depth of the point in the fluid. The formula is given as P = ρgh, where P is the pressure, ρ is the density of the fluid, g is the acceleration due to gravity, and h is the depth of the point in the fluid.

How is excess pressure different from absolute pressure?

Excess pressure and absolute pressure are two different ways of measuring pressure in a fluid. Absolute pressure is the total pressure at a given point, including atmospheric pressure. Excess pressure, on the other hand, is the pressure above the atmospheric pressure. This means that excess pressure will always be a positive value, while absolute pressure can be either positive or negative.

Why is it important to calculate pressure at a specific point in a fluid?

Calculating pressure at a specific point in a fluid is important because it helps us understand the behavior of fluids. Pressure is a key factor in many fluid-related phenomena, such as fluid flow, buoyancy, and stability. By calculating pressure at a specific point, we can make predictions and decisions about how the fluid will behave in different situations.

What factors can affect the pressure at a point in a fluid?

The pressure at a point in a fluid can be affected by several factors, including the density of the fluid, the acceleration due to gravity, the depth of the point in the fluid, and the external forces acting on the fluid. Temperature and the compressibility of the fluid can also play a role in the pressure at a point.

Is the excess pressure formula applicable to all fluids?

The excess pressure formula is applicable to most fluids, including liquids and gases. However, it may not be accurate for highly compressible fluids, such as gases at high pressures, or for fluids with complex behavior, such as non-Newtonian fluids. In these cases, more advanced equations may be used to calculate pressure at a specific point in the fluid.

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