Archimedes' Principle and a weather balloon

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SUMMARY

This discussion centers on Archimedes' Principle as it applies to a weather balloon scenario. The key equations involved are the buoyant force equation, which states that the buoyant force equals the weight of the fluid displaced (Buoyant force = Vpg). The participant calculated the total downward force as 990N for a mass of 99kg and concluded that the balloon achieves equilibrium at a certain altitude, where the upward buoyant force balances the weight. The mention of the meteorological instrument's weight serves to challenge the participant's understanding of buoyancy and equilibrium.

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  • Understanding of Archimedes' Principle
  • Knowledge of buoyant force calculations
  • Familiarity with basic physics concepts such as weight and equilibrium
  • Ability to apply equations related to fluid mechanics
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a129

Homework Statement


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2. Homework Equations

Buoyant force= mg(mass of fluid displaced = Vpg (volume of fluid displaced)
Buoyant force=weight of object (if floating)

The Attempt at a Solution


If the total mass is 99kg, then the total force acting downwards is 990N. It also said that the balloon "stops to move upwards after reaching a certain altitude" and from there I just assumed that it is floating, so upward force and weight are balanced.

My answer is D, but I'm not sure if it's correct because why did they give the weight of meteorological instrument?
 
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a129 said:
why did they give the weight of meteorological instrument?
To give you the opportunity of choosing an incorrect answer.
 
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