Difference between Centroid and Centre of Pressue

In summary, the difference between the Centre of Pressure and Centroid is that the centre of pressure acts on the centroid and they can be in different positions for a submerged surface. This is because when pressure is applied evenly to a flat surface, the center of pressure is the centroid. However, if the submerged surface is at an angle, the pressure is not constant across the surface. Additionally, even if the submerged surface is perfectly vertical, the centroid and the centre of pressure will not coincide due to the pressure gradient caused by Pascal's Law.
  • #1
Yam
32
1

Homework Statement


What is the difference between the Centre of Pressure and Centroid

Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


My understanding is that the centre of pressure acts on a centroid. So, how come they can be on different positions for a submerged surface?
 
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  • #2
If pressure is applied evenly to a flat surface, then the center of pressure is the centroid. If a submerged surface is at an angle, then the pressure is not constant across the surface.
 
  • #3
RUber said:
If pressure is applied evenly to a flat surface, then the center of pressure is the centroid. If a submerged surface is at an angle, then the pressure is not constant across the surface.

Even if the submerged surface is perfectly vertical, the centroid and the c.p. don't coincide because of the pressure gradient due to Pascal's Law where P = ρgh.
 
  • #4
SteamKing said:
Even if the submerged surface is perfectly vertical, the centroid and the c.p. don't coincide because of the pressure gradient due to Pascal's Law where P = ρgh.
Likely RUber meant at an angle to the horizontal, which would include 90 degrees.
 

What is the difference between centroid and centre of pressure?

Centroid and centre of pressure are two different concepts used in the field of fluid mechanics, specifically in the study of fluid forces on solid bodies. Centroid refers to the point at which the entire weight of a body can be considered to act, while centre of pressure refers to the point at which the resultant force of fluid pressure acts on a body.

How are centroid and centre of pressure calculated?

The centroid of a body can be calculated by finding the average of all the individual points of the body, taking into account their respective weights. On the other hand, the centre of pressure is calculated by considering the distribution of fluid pressure on the surface of the body and finding the point at which the resultant force acts.

What is the significance of centroid and centre of pressure in fluid mechanics?

The centroid of a body is important as it helps in determining the stability and equilibrium of the body. It also helps in calculating the moment of inertia of the body. The centre of pressure is important in determining the lift and drag forces acting on a body in a fluid flow, which is crucial in designing aerodynamic structures.

Can the centroid and centre of pressure be at the same point?

No, the centroid and centre of pressure cannot be at the same point. The centroid is a geometric property of a body while the centre of pressure is dependent on the fluid forces acting on the body. In most cases, the centroid and centre of pressure are not even located on the same line.

How do centroid and centre of pressure change with the shape of the body?

The centroid of a body changes with its shape, while the centre of pressure changes with the distribution of fluid pressure on the surface of the body. As the shape of a body changes, the centroid shifts accordingly. Similarly, the centre of pressure also changes as the distribution of fluid pressure changes with the shape of the body.

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