Gravity’s Effect on Water Flow from Tap??

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the physics of water flow from a tap, specifically how gravity affects the stream's diameter. As water flows downward from a slightly open tap, it accelerates due to gravity, resulting in a thinner stream as the distance from the tap increases. This phenomenon occurs because the same volume of water must occupy a larger distance over time, leading to a reduction in diameter while surface tension maintains the integrity of the stream.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of basic physics principles, particularly gravity.
  • Knowledge of fluid dynamics, specifically the behavior of liquids under gravitational forces.
  • Familiarity with surface tension and its effects on liquid streams.
  • Basic comprehension of flow rate and volume conservation in fluids.
NEXT STEPS
  • Research the principles of fluid dynamics, focusing on Bernoulli's equation.
  • Explore the concept of surface tension in liquids and its implications in fluid behavior.
  • Investigate the effects of gravity on fluid flow in various contexts, such as irrigation systems.
  • Learn about flow rate calculations and how they apply to different tap designs.
USEFUL FOR

This discussion is beneficial for physics students, engineers, and anyone interested in understanding the principles of fluid dynamics and the effects of gravity on liquid flow.

whoelsebutme
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water from tap...

A tap is left slightly open., and a gentle stream of water is flowing downwards from it.

Why is it that the stream becomes thinner as it gets farther away from the tap?

??
 
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In a word...Gravity.
 
At any point along the stream, the same amount of water flows by every second. Since the stream picks up speed as it falls, that same amount of water gets stretched out, taking up a smaller diameter. Surface tension keeps the stream together.
 

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