Fluid mechanics help, where am i going wrong?

[shadow7874]

Homework Statement

[PLAIN]http://img30.imageshack.us/img30/6918/screenshot20110828at111.png

Homework Equations

P_base= rho * h * g = 1800 kg/m^3 * h * 9.81 m/s^2 = 17658 * h kg/(m^2 s^2)
F_h= .5 * h * P_base = 10594.8 * h^2 kg/(m^2 s^2)

The Attempt at a Solution

I am trying to find the force F_h by calculating the pressure at the bottom of the load and creating a resultant. The issue i believe i am having is that there is no depth given so I'm not sure how to calculate the force on a wall since i only have 1 of the walls dimension. Unless I'm reading the problem incorrectly and the width and depth are both .25m? When i do the math the F_h works out to be kg/s^2 instead of Newtons.

Once i figure out the F_h i would then just need to take the moment about A to find the tipping point and the max F_friction to find the highest sliding point, correct? If anyone could guide me as to what I'm doing wrong that would be helpful.

 

[rude man]

I believe you're on the right track.

When a dimension is omitted in a problem you can be pretty sure it's not needed. Just assume a 1m depth. Then compute the resultant for F_H to get the slip point and sum torques (moments) about A as you say.

Isn't it funny how they say "retaining wall" instead of just "dam"?

PS - force is now pressure * effective height * 1m, you realize.