Get Help with Calculating Force on a Hand Pump for Introductory Physics Course

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To calculate the force required to operate a hand pump with a mass of 5kg, it's essential to consider both the weight of the mass and the friction involved in the process. The basic formula for force is F = m * g, where m is the mass and g is the acceleration due to gravity (approximately 9.81 m/s²). Additionally, the frictional force must be included, which can be calculated using the coefficient of friction and the normal force. Clarification on whether the force needed is for pushing in or pulling out would help refine the calculations. Understanding these principles will provide a solid foundation for solving the problem.
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Hi there, You might hate me for this as I'm completely new to physics.

My university has me taking a side course in Introductory physics. This would be ok if I knew a little about the subject, but I do not. So I'd love for some help with the following:I have been given the task to work out the force needed to push in with a mass of 5kg and pull out on a simple hand pump (pic included). Whilst taking into account the friction when pushing in.

[PLAIN]http://www.awcycles.co.uk/images/blackburn/mynAir3.jpg

Now I am not asking for this to be done for me. All I'm asking is just some help on how I start the equation/formula. As I am unsure where to start.

Any help is apreciated. Many Thanks. :smile:
 
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The question is a bit confusing to me sorry.
You want the "force needed to push in with a mass of 5kg"? Could you please try and elaborate on this part or rephrase it?
 
The book claims the answer is that all the magnitudes are the same because "the gravitational force on the penguin is the same". I'm having trouble understanding this. I thought the buoyant force was equal to the weight of the fluid displaced. Weight depends on mass which depends on density. Therefore, due to the differing densities the buoyant force will be different in each case? Is this incorrect?

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