Eardrums "Pop" Outward on a Train - Bernoulli's Equation

In summary, the question of whether your eardrums "pop" outward or inward on a train with an open window is inconclusive. While Bernoulli's equation suggests that an increase in velocity would result in a decrease in pressure, the movement of the train through stationary air likely does not have a significant enough impact on the atmospheric pressure outside the window to cause a noticeable difference in ear popping. Additionally, the orientation, wind direction, and shape of the ear may also play a role in the direction of the pop. Therefore, it is difficult to determine a definitive answer to this question.
  • #1
skier07
8
0

Homework Statement



You are traveling on a train with your window open. As the train approaches its rather high operating speed, your ears "pop." Your eardrums respond to a decrease or increase in the air pressure by "popping" outward or inward, respectively. Do your eardrums "pop" outward or inward on the train? (Use Bernoulli's equation to back up your answer)

Homework Equations



P1 + .5(rho)(v1)^2 + (rho)gy1 = P2 + .5(rho)(v2)^2 + (rho)gy2



The Attempt at a Solution

 
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  • #2
skier07 said:

Homework Statement



You are traveling on a train with your window open. As the train approaches its rather high operating speed, your ears "pop." Your eardrums respond to a decrease or increase in the air pressure by "popping" outward or inward, respectively. Do your eardrums "pop" outward or inward on the train? (Use Bernoulli's equation to back up your answer)

Homework Equations



P1 + .5(rho)(v1)^2 + (rho)gy1 = P2 + .5(rho)(v2)^2 + (rho)gy2



The Attempt at a Solution

Unfortunately, this is a poorly conceived question. The movement of the train through the stationary air causes turbulence around the train. It does not change the atmospheric pressure of the air outside the window (beyond the region of turbulence). Bernoulli's equation really has nothing to do with this question.

AM
 
  • #3
An increase in velocity would correlate to a decrease in pressure. It's the same concept (for the purposes of this question) as blowing air over a paper strip to see that the air above the strip has decreased in pressure, which results in the paper strip being forced upwards.
 
  • #4
So your ears would pop out then? Because the pressure outside the window is lower? If your eardrum is like the piece of paper that is.
 
  • #5
I never notice such pop before in real life, perhaps the train is just too noisy for me to notice that...
IMO, the pop depends on the orientation, wind direction, and ear shape very much. If the wind is normal to the ear-hole rather then tangential, then there can be inward pop. Of course you can consider both cases anyway. I certainly would prefer the question be more definite.:smile:
 

1. What is Bernoulli's equation?

Bernoulli's equation is a mathematical formula that relates the pressure, velocity, and elevation of a fluid. It is named after Swiss mathematician and physicist Daniel Bernoulli.

2. How does Bernoulli's equation apply to eardrums popping on a train?

When a train moves through the air, it creates an area of low pressure behind it. This low pressure pulls on the eardrum, causing it to pop outward. Bernoulli's equation explains this phenomenon by showing how the change in air pressure affects the eardrum.

3. Why do eardrums pop more frequently on a train than on a plane?

Eardrum popping is caused by a difference in pressure between the inside and outside of the ear. On a train, the pressure changes more gradually as the train accelerates and decelerates, leading to more frequent popping. On a plane, the pressure changes more quickly during takeoff and landing, so the eardrum may only pop once or twice.

4. Is it harmful for eardrums to pop on a train?

No, it is not harmful for eardrums to pop on a train. In fact, it is a natural and necessary process to equalize the pressure inside and outside of the ear. This can help prevent discomfort or even damage to the eardrum.

5. How can I prevent my eardrums from popping on a train?

To prevent eardrum popping on a train, you can try chewing gum, swallowing, or gently blowing air through your nose while holding it closed. These actions can help equalize the pressure in your ears and prevent the popping sensation.

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