Estimate the density of the water

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves estimating the density of water at a depth of 5.7 km in the sea, using the bulk modulus of water. Participants are tasked with understanding how pressure changes with depth and its effect on density.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss various equations related to pressure and density, expressing uncertainty about how to proceed without knowing certain variables like pressure, force, or area. Some suggest estimating density by assuming pressure remains constant, while others question the validity of this assumption.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants exploring different assumptions and approaches. Some guidance has been offered regarding the use of equations and the implications of assuming constant pressure, though there is no explicit consensus on the best method to proceed.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the complexity of the problem due to the depth and the changing nature of pressure, which may affect the density of water. There is an acknowledgment of the need for more information regarding pressure changes at depth.

kritzy
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Homework Statement


Estimate the density of the water 5.7 km deep in the sea. (bulk modulus for water is B=2.0 x 10^9 N/m^2) By what fraction does it differ from the density at the surface?

Homework Equations


P=(rho)gh=F/A=B(delta l/l)

The Attempt at a Solution


So I have several equations above. I wanted so solve for rho using the first equation but I don't know pressure. I tried the second equations but I don't know Force or area. I tried the last equation but I would need delta l and l so basically I'm stuck. Some advice would be much appreciated.
 
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kritzy said:
Estimate the density of the water 5.7 km deep in the sea. (bulk modulus for water is B=2.0 x 10^9 N/m^2) By what fraction does it differ from the density at the surface?

Homework Equations


P=(rho)gh=F/A=B(delta l/l)

The Attempt at a Solution


So I have several equations above. I wanted so solve for rho using the first equation but I don't know pressure. I tried the second equations but I don't know Force or area. I tried the last equation but I would need delta l and l so basically I'm stuck. Some advice would be much appreciated.

Well they do say estimate. So maybe try to work it out assuming that p doesn't change?

(Yes it changes, but does it change enough to matter? See what results you get and then decide.)
 
LowlyPion said:
Well they do say estimate. So maybe try to work it out assuming that p doesn't change?

(Yes it changes, but does it change enough to matter? See what results you get and then decide.)

I don't understand. I'm suppose to be solving for p at a certain density. How can it not change?
 
kritzy said:
I don't understand. I'm suppose to be solving for p at a certain density. How can it not change?

Have you calculated it using a uniform p as to the effect it will have on a bulk modulus of 2 * 109?
 
In 6 km, the change in pressure is significant.

Here's something to get you started:

Use the equation,

B=dP/(d(rho)/rho)

Manipulate and integrate,

integral of (d(rho)/rho) = integral of (dP/B)

That results in,

ln(rho2/rho1)=exp((P2-P1)/B)

Where you can say state 1 is the surface, and state 2 is the state at 5.7 km down.

You can then use the rho*g*h equation.
 

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