Fluids Conceptual Questions: Understanding Pressure and Bernoulli's Equation

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SUMMARY

This discussion focuses on the fundamental concepts of pressure in fluids, specifically addressing static and dynamic conditions. Pressure is defined as force divided by area and applies universally to both static and moving fluids. The hydrostatic pressure equation, p = p₀ + ρgh, is clarified with an example showing that at 100 meters depth, the pressure is 1082 kPa. Bernoulli's equation is explained as a conservation of energy principle, emphasizing that pressure, kinetic energy, and potential energy remain constant in a flowing fluid.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic fluid mechanics concepts
  • Familiarity with hydrostatic pressure equations
  • Knowledge of Bernoulli's equation and its components
  • Concept of energy conservation in physical systems
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation and applications of Bernoulli's equation in fluid dynamics
  • Explore Pascal's principle and its implications for hydraulic systems
  • Investigate the characteristics of incompressible fluids and their behavior under pressure changes
  • Learn about the relationship between pressure, density, and height in various fluid scenarios
USEFUL FOR

Students studying fluid mechanics, engineers working with hydraulic systems, and anyone seeking to deepen their understanding of pressure dynamics in both static and moving fluids.

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Homework Statement


1. Is pressure always force/area? or is it only for static fluids?
2. I read that the equation for hydrostatic pressure is (initial pressure) + density x gravity x height, but How would I know to use that instead of Force/Area? Also is the initial pressure always atmospheric?
3. Please help describe pressure for moving fluids?
Why in bernoulli's equation is it just pressure and not using the quantity (density x volume x height?)

Homework Equations


I have stated relevant equations above.

The Attempt at a Solution



I just keep getting confused with concept and would appreciate some help. Thanks

Homework Statement


Homework Equations


The Attempt at a Solution

 
Last edited:
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oh boy. What class is this for, and what have you learned so far?

1. Is pressure always force/area? or is it only for static fluids?
Pressure is force divided by an area. It exists in static fluids, moving fluids, everywhere.

2. I read that the equation for hydrostatic pressure is (initial pressure) + density x gravity x height, but How would I know to use that instead of Force/Area? Also is the initial pressure always atmospheric?
Pressure is BOTH. If the hydrostatic pressure of water at 100 meters is:
p = p_\infty + \rho g h = 101.3 kPa + (1000 kg/m^3)(9.81 m/s^2)(100m) = 1082 kPa
Then that means that the fluid will exert 1082 N of force for every 1 meter of area.

3. Please help describe pressure for moving fluids? Why in bernoulli's equation is it just pressure and not using the quantity (density x volume x height?)
Bernoulli's equation is a form of conservation of energy. It basically says that energy cannot be created or destroyed, only transferred. In laymens' terms, it says that the internal energy (pressure) plus kinetic energy (velocity) plus potential energy (height) stays the same.
 
minger said:
oh boy. What class is this for, and what have you learned so far?

1. Is pressure always force/area? or is it only for static fluids?
Pressure is force divided by an area. It exists in static fluids, moving fluids, everywhere.

2. I read that the equation for hydrostatic pressure is (initial pressure) + density x gravity x height, but How would I know to use that instead of Force/Area? Also is the initial pressure always atmospheric?
Pressure is BOTH. If the hydrostatic pressure of water at 100 meters is:
p = p_\infty + \rho g h = 101.3 kPa + (1000 kg/m^3)(9.81 m/s^2)(100m) = 1082 kPa
Then that means that the fluid will exert 1082 N of force for every 1 meter of area.

3. Please help describe pressure for moving fluids? Why in bernoulli's equation is it just pressure and not using the quantity (density x volume x height?)
Bernoulli's equation is a form of conservation of energy. It basically says that energy cannot be created or destroyed, only transferred. In laymens' terms, it says that the internal energy (pressure) plus kinetic energy (velocity) plus potential energy (height) stays the same.

Could you explain Pascal's principle? What is an incompressible fluid and how is a change in pressure applied to an incompressible fluid independent of height?
 

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