Absolute Pressure in Multilayered Fluid

In summary: The second approach assumes that the oil and water are at the same height, which may not always be the case. Therefore, in summary, to find the absolute pressure on the bottom of the container, you can use either the equation Pabs = Patm + Pwater + Poil or Pabs = Patm + Pgauge, but the first equation is a more accurate approach.
  • #1
xslaught
1
0
I just can't figure this out:

In a sample of seawater taken from an oil spill, an oil layer 3.4 cm thick floats on 61.3 cm of water. If the density of the oil is 750 kg/m^3, what is the absolute pressure on the bottom of the container?

The density of water is 1000kg/m^3
The density of oil is 750kg/m^3

This is the approach I came up with:
Pabs = Patm + Pwater + Poil

Hoil = (3.4 cm * 1 m/100 cm = 0.034 m)
Hwater = 61.3 cm * 1m/100 cm = 0.613 m

equation:
P = rgh
r = density; g = gravity constant (9.8 m/s^2); h = height

Poil = 750 kg/m^3 * 9.8 m/s^2 * 0.034 m = 249.9 Pa
Pwater = 1000 kg/m^3 * 9.8 m/s^2 * 0.613 m = 6007.4 Pa
Patm = 101300 Pa
Pabs = 101300 Pa + 249.9 Pa + 6007.4 Pa = 107557.3 Pa

however I'm not too sure. I don't remember what exactly was said in class.
This is the other way which could be right.
Hoil + Hwater = 0.034 m + 0.613 m = 0.647 m
Pgauge = density of oil * g * h
Pgauge = 750 kg/m^3 * 9.8 m/s^2 * 0.647 m = 4755.45 Pa
Pabs = Patm + Pgauge
Pabs = 4755.45 Pa + 101300 Pa = 106055.45 Pa
 
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  • #2
So which one is correct? Both equations are correct and will give you the same answer. However, the first equation is the more accurate approach since it takes into account the individual pressures of both the oil and the water.
 
  • #3


As a scientist, it is important to always check and double check our calculations and assumptions. In this case, both methods seem to be valid and result in a similar value for absolute pressure at the bottom of the container. However, it is always best to consult with your professor or colleagues for clarification and to ensure accuracy in your calculations. Additionally, it is important to remember to include units in your final answer to ensure clarity and precision.
 

What is absolute pressure in multilayered fluid?

Absolute pressure in multilayered fluid refers to the total pressure exerted by the weight of the fluid itself and any external forces acting on it. It is the sum of all the individual pressures from each layer of the fluid.

How is absolute pressure calculated in multilayered fluid?

Absolute pressure in multilayered fluid can be calculated by adding the pressure from each layer using the equation P = ρgh, where P is pressure, ρ is density, g is gravitational acceleration, and h is the height of the fluid column in that layer.

What factors affect absolute pressure in multilayered fluid?

The absolute pressure in multilayered fluid is affected by the density and height of each layer, as well as the external forces acting on the fluid, such as atmospheric pressure or applied pressure. Changes in temperature and depth can also impact the absolute pressure.

How does absolute pressure in multilayered fluid differ from gauge pressure?

Absolute pressure takes into account the weight of the fluid itself, while gauge pressure only measures the pressure above atmospheric pressure. In multilayered fluid, absolute pressure is the sum of the pressure from each layer, while gauge pressure would only consider the pressure at the surface.

What are the applications of understanding absolute pressure in multilayered fluid?

Understanding absolute pressure in multilayered fluid is important in various fields, such as oceanography, meteorology, and engineering. It can be used to calculate the forces on submerged structures, predict changes in weather patterns, and analyze the dynamics of fluids in different environments.

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