Air Pressure and Net Force on a Door in a Tornado

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the net force exerted on a door during a tornado, where atmospheric pressure drops by 15%. The atmospheric pressure at sea level is approximately 1.0 x 105 N/m2. The user initially attempted to apply the formula P=F/A but miscalculated the force due to unit confusion. The correct approach involves recognizing that the pressure differential across the door results in a net force, which must be calculated in Newtons, not Pascals.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics concepts, particularly pressure and force.
  • Familiarity with the formula P=F/A (Pressure = Force/Area).
  • Knowledge of unit conversions, specifically between Pascals and Newtons.
  • Basic comprehension of atmospheric pressure and its variations in extreme weather conditions.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the implications of pressure differentials in fluid dynamics.
  • Learn about atmospheric pressure variations during severe weather events.
  • Explore unit conversion techniques between different measurement systems.
  • Investigate the effects of net forces on structures in extreme conditions.
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physics students, meteorologists, engineers, and anyone interested in understanding the effects of atmospheric pressure on structures during tornadoes.

NPM
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Homework Statement


In a tornado, the pressure can be 15 percent below normal atmospheric pressure. Suppose that a tornado occurred outside a door that is 195 cm high and 91 cm wide. What net force would be exerted on the door by a sudden 15 percent drop in normal atmospheric pressure? In what direction would the force be exerted?


Homework Equations


Here lies the problem.
I do no know which formula I should be using.
I know that atmospheric pressure is about 1.0 x 10^5 N/m squared at sea level.
Which I'm inferring is what I would use for the problem.
Could someone post a formula or something?
I think that's all I would need.
 
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Never mind.
I just realized that P=F/A would work.
Whoops xP
 
So I tried doing the problem:
P=F/A
Regular pressure = 1.0 x 10^5
15% decrease = 8.5 x 10^3
85000 = F/(195 x 91)
= F/177.45<--- Converted to meters
So I multiplied by the area:
85000 x 177.45=15,083,250 Pa
And that, to me, seems like a completely ridiculous answer.
Would someone care to correct or at least help me?
 
A couple of comments:

1. Remember there is a net force, due 1 full atmosphere of pressure, pushing on the other side of the door.

2. Be careful with the units. It asks for a force, you're answer was in Pa units. Do you see the problem there?
 

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