Simple question about object submerged in a fluid (fluid Mechanics)

In summary, the pressure at the top and bottom of a submerged object is determined by the hydrostatic equation, regardless of the object's weight, density, or geometry. This relationship applies to all objects submerged in a fluid and is based solely on the vertical depth. Putting an object into a container of fluid will increase the pressure, but the equation remains the same.
  • #1
aero&astro
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If an object like a sphere is submerged in a fluid and held in place by a rope, does the pressure are the top and the bottom of the sphere have anything to do with the weight/density/geometery of the sphere? or is it simply a case of using the hydrostatic equation for the pressure at the top and the bottom of the object?

In gerneral does pressure in a fluid relate to the properties of objects which may be submerged in it?
 
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  • #2
aero&astro said:
In gerneral does pressure in a fluid relate to the properties of objects which may be submerged in it?

Not affected at all. You could equally have an arbitrarily shaped container. The hydrostatic pressure is still just a function of the vertical depth, even if you have to go round corners to get the measurement point.

Of course putting an object into a container of fluid will increase the pressure by raising the height of the free surface, but it's still the same equation of p = density * g * depth.
 

1. What is the concept of buoyancy?

The concept of buoyancy is the upward force exerted on an object that is partially or fully submerged in a fluid. This force is equal to the weight of the fluid that the object displaces.

2. How does the density of the fluid affect the object's buoyancy?

The density of the fluid directly affects the object's buoyancy. A denser fluid will exert a greater upward force, making the object more buoyant. On the other hand, a less dense fluid will exert a smaller upward force, making the object less buoyant.

3. What is the difference between a floating and a sinking object?

A floating object is one that is less dense than the fluid it is submerged in, causing it to rise to the surface and stay afloat. A sinking object is more dense than the fluid, causing it to sink to the bottom.

4. How does the shape of an object affect its buoyancy?

The shape of an object can greatly affect its buoyancy. A more streamlined and smooth shape will experience less resistance from the fluid and therefore be more buoyant. On the other hand, a more irregular and rough shape will experience more resistance and be less buoyant.

5. What is the principle behind Archimedes' principle?

Archimedes' principle states that the buoyant force exerted on an object is equal to the weight of the fluid that the object displaces. This means that an object will float if it is less dense than the fluid it is submerged in, and it will sink if it is more dense.

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