Fluid Statics: Solid & Hollow Spheres in Water

In summary, fluid statics is the study of fluids at rest, including pressure, density, and buoyancy. A solid sphere is a 3-dimensional object with a round shape and constant density, while a hollow sphere has a hollow space inside. The density of a solid sphere determines its buoyancy in water, with denser spheres sinking and less dense spheres floating. The presence of a hollow space inside a sphere decreases its overall density and makes it more likely to float in water, even if the material is denser than water.
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Homework Statement

A solid sphere and a hollow sphere of same radius and same material are dropped from the top of a beaker filled with water. The height of water in the beaker is 'H'. Which sphere will reach the bottom of the beaker earlier and why? (Neglect any viscous force)
 
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  • #2
So the problem wants you to assume that they both sink. Fine. What determines that they sink, (in terms of force balance)? Also, what determines the magnitude of the force that tries to prevent them from sinking?
 

What is fluid statics?

Fluid statics is the study of fluids at rest, specifically the behavior of fluids when they are not in motion. This includes the study of pressure, density, and buoyancy.

What is a solid sphere?

A solid sphere is a 3-dimensional object with a round shape and a constant density throughout. It can be made of any material and does not have any hollow space inside.

What is a hollow sphere?

A hollow sphere is a 3-dimensional object with a round shape and a constant density throughout, but it has a hollow space inside. This hollow space can either be completely empty or filled with a gas or liquid.

How does the density of a solid sphere affect its buoyancy in water?

The density of a solid sphere affects its buoyancy in water because it determines whether the sphere will sink or float. If the density of the sphere is greater than the density of water, it will sink. If the density of the sphere is less than the density of water, it will float.

How does the presence of a hollow space inside a sphere affect its buoyancy in water?

The presence of a hollow space inside a sphere affects its buoyancy in water because it decreases the overall density of the sphere. This makes it more likely for the sphere to float, even if the material it is made of is denser than water.

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