Caculation of force exerted by water

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SUMMARY

The calculation of the force exerted by water on a submerged object can be determined using the drag equation. In this discussion, the user seeks to calculate the force on their leg, approximated as a cylinder with a cross-sectional area of 36 in², submerged in 1 ft of water with a flow velocity of 4 mph. The relevant formulas include F=ma and F=mv/t, where the final velocity is considered zero for the calculation. The user expresses confusion regarding the time variable's impact on force, which is clarified through the drag equation.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics concepts such as force, mass, and acceleration.
  • Familiarity with the drag equation and its application in fluid dynamics.
  • Knowledge of how to approximate shapes, specifically cylinders, for physics calculations.
  • Ability to convert units, particularly between imperial and metric systems.
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the drag equation in detail to understand its application in fluid dynamics.
  • Learn how to calculate drag force on cylindrical objects in various fluid flow conditions.
  • Explore the principles of fluid mechanics, focusing on buoyancy and submerged objects.
  • Investigate the effects of varying flow velocities on the forces exerted by fluids.
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physics students, engineers, and anyone interested in understanding the forces exerted by fluids on submerged objects, particularly in practical scenarios like standing in a river.

sadowski777
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Hi,

I was standing in a river and I'm curious how much force it was exerting on my leg. I'm not sure how to do this calculation. Here's what I know:

F=ma
if the final velocity is zero, F=mv/t

I'll assuming I was standing in 1ft of water, my leg is 36in^2, and the water is traveling at 4mph.

It doesn't make sense that the force exerted over 2 seconds would be different then the force exerted over 4 seconds.

Any suggestions or help?

Thanks
 
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Excellent. Thank you very much.
 

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