By how much is each post compressed?

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around calculating the compression of wooden posts supporting a large aquarium. The user initially calculates the compression using the formula ΔL = FL/AY, arriving at a value of 0.00184 meters. Confusion arises over the expected units and significant figures, as the user notes that previous questions required two significant figures, while this one required three. Ultimately, the correct answer is confirmed as 0.00184 meters, highlighting the importance of paying attention to specific requirements in physics problems. The conversation emphasizes the need for clarity in unit specifications and significant figures in calculations.
Wimpalot
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Homework Statement


A large 30000 L aquarium is supported by four wood posts at the corners. Each post has a square 6.00 cm x 6.00 cm cross section and is 90.0 cm tall. Take Y=10^10 for wood

Homework Equations


ΔL = FL/AY
F = ma
ρ = m/V

The Attempt at a Solution


So the total area is 0.06 * 0.06 * 4 = 0.0144m2
The length of each post is 0.9m
The total mass of water is 30000kg (taking the density as 1kg/L)
Meaning the weight is 30000*9.8 = 294000N
And Y=1010

Which gives:
ΔL = (294000*0.9)/(0.0144*1010
= 0.00184

But this is apparently wrong. I have no idea what I did wrong
 
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Were they expecting the answer to be given in particular units?
 
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It has never mattered before as I can specify the units. So it shouldn't matter.
 
Wimpalot said:
It has never mattered before as I can specify the units. So it shouldn't matter.
Well, I can't spot any other issues. Your calculations look okay to me. Unless of course this is a salt-water aquarium?
 
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gneill said:
Well, I can't spot any other issues. Your calculations look okay to me. Unless of course this is a salt-water aquarium?
That was my second thought. In which case I get 0.0019 which was also incorrect. So yeah, no idea what the issue is maybe they do want different units so I may try that otherwise I don't know. I only get 5 attempts (this is mastering physics)
 
Turns out every other question wants two significant figures except this one which wanted exactly 3 to be correct so yeah. 0.00184 was correct. Thanks for the assistance
 
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