Buoyant Force Direction in the Millikan Oil Drop Experiment

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the Millikan oil drop experiment, specifically focusing on the direction of the buoyant force in relation to other forces acting on the oil drop, such as weight, electrical, and drag forces.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are exploring the relationship between buoyant force and weight, questioning how additional forces like electrical and drag might influence the overall dynamics of the experiment.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided insights regarding the buoyant force acting in opposition to weight, while others express uncertainty about the implications of additional forces. There is a call for more experienced input to clarify these points.

Contextual Notes

Participants note that existing resources have not provided satisfactory answers regarding the buoyant force's direction, indicating a potential gap in understanding or available information.

Juan Pablo
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What's the direction of the buoyant force? I'm trying to find the equation for the charge on the Millikan oil drop experiment. It requires two equilibrium equations but I'm not sure which sign should the buoyant force have.

My internet searches neither my book have been able to answer this. Thanks.
 
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As far as I know the buoyant force acts in the opposite direction than the one of the weight.
 
Yes, but I don't know if the fact that there are electrical and drag forces changes anything. According to Wikipedia the apparent weight equation is:

W = \frac{4}{3} \pi r^3 g(\rho - \rho_{air})
 
I don't think it changes something, but I prefer to wait for more experienced people to help you.
 

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