Does a Tube's Length Affect Force at the Same PSI?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around whether the length of a tube affects the force exerted on a piston when both tubes are filled with the same pressure (10 psi). Participants explore the relationship between pressure, area, and force in this context.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • One participant questions if a 12" x 1.5"D tube filled with 10 psi exerts more force on a piston than a 6" x 1.5"D tube filled with the same pressure.
  • Another participant asks about the area that the pressure acts upon, implying that this may differ between the two tube lengths.
  • A subsequent reply asserts that the area of the piston remains the same in both cases, suggesting that pressure alone may not determine force differences.
  • Another participant introduces the example of a bicycle tire pump, stating that the force required to operate the pump depends on the pressure and area of the piston, rather than the volume of the tire.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on whether the length of the tube influences the force on the piston, and the discussion remains unresolved regarding the implications of pressure and area.

Contextual Notes

There is uncertainty regarding how the area of pressure application may vary with tube length, and the discussion does not clarify the relationship between volume and force in this context.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in fluid dynamics, mechanics, or applications involving pressure systems may find this discussion relevant.

alfiez23
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Does a 12" x 1.5"D tube filled with 10psi have more force on an piston than a 6" x 1.5"D tube filled with 10psi?

Or is 10psi the same on an object no matter what size the tank...
 
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What is the area this pressure is acting on? Is it the same or different between the two cases?
 
The area of the piston would be the same.
 
Lets say you have a conventional bicycle tyre pump (eg piston in a tube). The force you need to apply to the pump handle depends on the pressure in the tyre and area of the piston and NOT the volume of the tyre.
 

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