Calculating A & ρ for a Sphere in Air Resistance

Click For Summary

Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the reference area (A) and mass density (ρ) for a sphere experiencing air resistance, specifically using the drag equation. The sphere has a diameter of 1.65 cm, and the context includes conditions at standard atmospheric temperature and pressure (SATP).

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore how to determine the projected area of the sphere and question the relevance of air density in the context of drag calculations.

Discussion Status

The conversation includes attempts to clarify the calculation of the sphere's area and the appropriate mass density of air. Some participants provide guidance on looking up values, while others express confusion regarding the meaning of density in this context.

Contextual Notes

Participants discuss the specific conditions of air density at SATP and the implications of measuring drag in air versus water. There is a mention of potential confusion regarding units and the need for clarity on the concept of density.

cmorency
Messages
11
Reaction score
0
In the drag equation FD =1/2ρ x v^2 x CD x A
FD is the force of drag, which is by definition the force component in the direction of the flow velocity,
ρ is the mass density of the fluid,
u is the velocity of the object
A is the reference area, and
CD is the drag coefficient

How would you find A of a sphere 1.65cm in diameter
And what would mass density be if we are measuring air resistance and not water drag? The air temperature and presure is at SATP (1 atm, 25 degrees celsius) if that helps?
 
Physics news on Phys.org
The area of the sphere is the projected frontal area exposed to the fluid, that is, the area of a circle with a 1.65 cm diameter. You can look up the mass density of air at that pressure and temperature in any table.
 
but it says per kg so would i need to determine the amount of air it travels through?
 
I don't know what you mean by 'per kg'. Density is mass per unit volume. Mass density is in kg/m^3. You don't need to know the mount of air it travels through.
 
Thanks. I got it.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 15 ·
Replies
15
Views
2K
  • · Replies 24 ·
Replies
24
Views
4K
Replies
57
Views
3K
  • · Replies 14 ·
Replies
14
Views
5K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
5K
  • · Replies 88 ·
3
Replies
88
Views
10K
  • · Replies 28 ·
Replies
28
Views
3K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
3K