Fluid mechanics water tank level

In summary, fluid mechanics is the branch of physics that studies the behavior of fluids, including liquids and gases. One application of this field is in monitoring the level of water in a tank. This involves understanding the principles of fluid pressure and flow, as well as using techniques such as Bernoulli's equation and differential pressure sensors. Accurately measuring and controlling the water level in a tank is crucial in various industries, from water and wastewater treatment to chemical and oil refineries. By applying the principles of fluid mechanics, engineers and scientists are able to ensure safe and efficient operation of water tanks.
  • #1
utkarshakash
Gold Member
854
13

Homework Statement


A large cylindrical tank has a hole of area A at its bottom. Water is poured in the tank by a tube of equal cross-sectional area A ejecting water at the speed v

a)The water level in the tank will keep on rising.
b)No water can be stored in the tank.
c)The water level will rise to a height (v^2/2g) and then stop.
d)The water level will oscillate.

Homework Equations



The Attempt at a Solution


The velocity of water when it reaches the bottom of the tank is [itex]\sqrt{2gh}[/itex] if I assume h to be the height of cylindrical tank. But it seems difficult to answer the question on this basis.
 
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  • #2
At first, water will only flow out of the hole slowly, so the level will rise.
What will determine the rate at which water flows out of the hole? (You may have been given an equation for this.)
 
  • #3
haruspex said:
At first, water will only flow out of the hole slowly, so the level will rise.
What will determine the rate at which water flows out of the hole? (You may have been given an equation for this.)

Yes. The equation of continuity states that Av=constant. So it is the area of the hole that determines the rate of flow.
 
  • #4
utkarshakash said:
The equation of continuity states that Av=constant. So it is the area of the hole that determines the rate of flow.
No, all that equation tells you is how to work out the volumetric rate from the linear rate. You also need an equation that helps you determine that linear rate. Does the name Bernoulli help?
 
  • #5
haruspex said:
No, all that equation tells you is how to work out the volumetric rate from the linear rate. You also need an equation that helps you determine that linear rate. Does the name Bernoulli help?

Are you talking about Bernoulli's equation? If yes do you want me to write the equations for the water at the top and bottom level of the cylinder?
 
  • #6
utkarshakash said:
Are you talking about Bernoulli's equation? If yes do you want me to write the equations for the water at the top and bottom level of the cylinder?
You need an equation that relates both the depth of the water in the tank and the size of the hole to the rate at which water leaves the tank.
 
  • #7
haruspex said:
You need an equation that relates both the depth of the water in the tank and the size of the hole to the rate at which water leaves the tank.

I only know Bernoulli equation.
 
  • #8
utkarshakash said:
I only know Bernoulli equation.
That's the one, but it might not be obvious to you how it simplifies for this situation.
Take a look at eqn (2) at http://www.engineeringtoolbox.com/bernouilli-equation-d_183.html. Even this you can simplify a bit because you have atmospheric pressure both above the water and outside the hole.
So this gives you the relationship between the velocity (distance/time) of the water coming out of the hole and the height of water above the hole. See if you can use that to get a differential equation relating the height of the water to its rate of change.
 

1. What is the purpose of a water tank level in fluid mechanics?

The water tank level is used to measure and monitor the amount of water in a tank, which is important in fluid mechanics to understand the behavior of fluids under different levels and pressures.

2. How does the water tank level affect the flow rate of fluids?

The water tank level directly affects the flow rate of fluids as it determines the pressure and height of the fluid in the tank. A higher water level will result in a higher pressure and thus a higher flow rate, while a lower water level will result in a lower pressure and flow rate.

3. What factors can affect the accuracy of the water tank level measurement?

The accuracy of the water tank level measurement can be affected by factors such as the type and accuracy of the measuring instrument, the shape and size of the tank, and any obstructions or disturbances in the flow of the fluid.

4. How is the water level in a tank related to its volume and surface area?

The water level in a tank is directly related to its volume and surface area. As the volume of water increases, the water level will rise, and as the surface area of the tank increases, the water level will decrease. This relationship is important in calculating the amount of fluid in a tank.

5. Can the water tank level be used to determine the density of a fluid?

No, the water tank level alone cannot determine the density of a fluid. The density of a fluid is affected by various factors such as temperature and pressure, and specific instruments and calculations are needed to accurately measure it.

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