Balloon Physics: Impact of Punctured Balloon on Horizontal Balance

[kevinnn]

Homework Statement

Two identical balloons are of the same volume are pumped up with air to more than atmospheric pressure and suspended on the two ends of a stick so the stick is horizontally balanced. If one of the balloons is punctured is the balance of the stick upset?

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

I say yes. But I don't know why.

 

[Dick]

Homework Statement

Two identical balloons are of the same volume are pumped up with air to more than atmospheric pressure and suspended on the two ends of a stick so the stick is horizontally balanced. If one of the balloons is punctured is the balance of the stick upset?

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution

I say yes. But I don't know why.

If the contents of the two balloons have more than atmospheric pressure then the balloons are heavier than air. So?

 

[kevinnn]

So, if the balloon on the left is popped then the stick will sag towards the right, or the direction of the balloon that is left. Is it that simple? I thought there might be something I was missing?

 

[Dick]

So, if the balloon on the left is popped then the stick will sag towards the right, or the direction of the balloon that is left. Is it that simple? I thought there might be something I was missing?

Yes, both balloons are pulling down on the stick. If you pop one, it will stop pulling down. Simple as that.

 

[kevinnn]

Thanks.