Fluid transfer low flow to high without a pump

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the phenomenon of fluid transfer from a smaller truck tank to a larger underground tank without the use of a pump. Participants explore various explanations for how this transfer can occur despite the gravitational challenges posed by the height difference between the two tanks.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants suggest that the flow of ethanol from the truck to the larger tank could occur due to a poorly ventilated tank on the truck, which might create a pressure differential.
  • Others propose that environmental factors, such as a hot day, could influence the flow dynamics.
  • One participant questions whether the larger tank could be underground, which might affect the flow mechanics.
  • There is a repeated emphasis on the initial scenario of transferring ethanol from an 8000 gallon truck to an 80,000 gallon tank, indicating a focus on the mechanics of fluid dynamics in this specific context.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not appear to reach a consensus on a single explanation for the fluid transfer, with multiple competing views and hypotheses presented throughout the discussion.

Contextual Notes

Participants have not fully resolved the assumptions regarding tank ventilation, environmental conditions, or the physical setup of the tanks, leaving these aspects open for further exploration.

drrader5
A 8000 gallon truck of ethanol begins to flow into a tank containing 80,000 gallons of ethanol, how is this possible?
 
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drrader5 said:
A 8000 gallon truck of ethanol begins to flow into a tank containing 80,000 gallons of ethanol, how is this possible?
It appears that you have placed part of the question in the thread title and part into the message.

Possibly you mean to ask about a situation where there is ethanol in an 8000 gallon truck. A hose is run upward to the top of a larger tank with a capacity of 80,000 gallons. Contrary to expectation, when a valve on the truck is opened, some ethanol comes out of the hose end, though the flow eventually stops.

One can posit an explanation for this involving a poorly ventilated tank on the truck.
 
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jbriggs444 said:
involving a poorly ventilated tank on the truck
and a hot day?
 
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drrader5 said:
A 8000 gallon truck of ethanol begins to flow into a tank containing 80,000 gallons of ethanol, how is this possible?

The 80,000 gallon tank is underground?
 

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