Solving Archimedes Principle Homework: Understanding Derivation

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on the derivation of Archimedes' Principle, specifically the calculation of buoyant force (ΔF) based on pressure differences in a fluid. The key equations presented include ΔP = ρ*g*h and ΔF = ρ*g*V, where V represents the submerged volume of the object. The final expression for buoyant force is clarified as ΔF = mg(ρ/ρ'), correcting a misprint in the initial attempt. The conversation emphasizes the relationship between the densities of the object and the fluid, which is crucial for understanding buoyancy.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of fluid mechanics principles
  • Familiarity with pressure calculations in fluids
  • Knowledge of density and its implications in buoyancy
  • Basic algebra for manipulating equations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of Archimedes' Principle in detail
  • Explore applications of buoyant force in real-world scenarios
  • Learn about fluid density variations and their effects on buoyancy
  • Investigate the implications of buoyancy in engineering and design
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Students studying physics, particularly those focusing on fluid mechanics, as well as educators and professionals involved in engineering applications related to buoyancy and fluid dynamics.

funcosed
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Homework Statement


trying to make sense of this derivation...


Homework Equations


Buoyant force is not an independent force but is derived from difference in pressure from the bottom of an object to its top.

Lets say an object of density "ρ'" is located "d" meters down the surface of a liquid of density "ρ" relative to its upper surface so the upper surface experience a force of water pressure equal to

P1= ρ*g*d

Also assuming that the object itself is "h" meters in heights then the lower part is h +d meters down the surface and experiences a Pressure of

P2 = ρ*g* (d+h)

obviously P2 > P1

so ΔP = P2 - P1 = ρ*g* (d + h - d) = ρ*g*h

and then,

ΔP = ΔF / A = ρ*g*h

so we have

ΔF = ρ*g*h*A = ρ*g*V ; here V is the volume of the object that is submerged in the liquid, g is the gravity constant, and ρ is the density of the liquid.

Also since we have:

ΔF = ρ*g*V and ρ' = m / V so V = m / ρ' we have,

ΔF = ΔF = ρ*g*Vρ*g* (m / ρ') = (ρ * ρ')(mg) = W(object)* (ρ * ρ')

The Attempt at a Solution


I can follow most of it but not the last line. It looks like an equals sign has been left out
ΔF = ΔF = ρ*g*V = ρ*g* (m / ρ') ??
but then where does the (ρ * ρ') term come from??
 
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hi funcosed! :wink:
funcosed said:
I can follow most of it but not the last line. It looks like an equals sign has been left out
ΔF = ΔF = ρ*g*V = ρ*g* (m / ρ') ??
but then where does the (ρ * ρ') term come from??

yes, it should be ΔF = ρ*g*V = ρ*g* (m / ρ') = mg(ρ/ρ') …

that last * is a misprint :smile:
 
thanks
 

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