How Can I Form a Differential Equation for a Sphere's Flow Rate?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around forming a differential equation related to the flow rate of fluid from a sphere. The original poster presents equations involving flow rate, volume, and height of the liquid within the sphere, indicating a need to derive a differential equation in terms of height (H).

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the relationship between the volume of water in the sphere and the height of the liquid. There are attempts to clarify the definitions of variables and their interdependencies, particularly focusing on how to express volume as a function of height.

Discussion Status

Some participants have offered insights that may help in understanding the relationships between the variables involved. The original poster expresses confusion about the algebraic manipulation needed to derive the differential equation, indicating an ongoing exploration of the problem.

Contextual Notes

The original poster mentions the use of Heun's method for numerical analysis, which adds a layer of complexity to the problem. There is also a reference to the need for preliminary evaluations of volume and height, suggesting constraints related to coding the solution in MATLAB.

vigintitres
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Homework Statement



I just need to get these eqn's together to form a DE

Homework Equations



Q = CA*sqrt(2gH) = -dV/dt

and

V = pi/3 * H^2 * (3*r - H)

These eqn's refer to a sphere which has a flow Q of fluid out the bottom of said sphere. The radius of the sphere is r, the height H is from the bottom of the sphere (where the hole is) to the top of the liquid. Also, C is a constant and A is just the area pi*r^2

The Attempt at a Solution



I need to get a differential eqn in terms of H but I've exhausted, from what I can see, any algebraic manipulation. The final story to be told will use Heun's method to determine how long it takes to drain the liquid out of the sphere (I fully understand the method, it is just this preliminary step which I am confused about)
 
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The cross-sectional area multiplied by the height from the hole at the bottom to the water level at the top is the volume of water contained within the sphere at any given time, is it not?

[tex]A_{cross}=\frac{V(H)}{H(t)}[/tex] - (assuming of course V is a function of H, & H is a function of t.)

see if that helps you at all
 
Last edited:
yes, that looks great. I didn't even consider this and as such, it is a reminder to KIS! thanks
 
ah, but actually in order to use Heun's method, I'll need to evaluate a "preliminary" V which means I'll really need to use a preliminary H in the equation involving V(H) (i.e. solving a cubic polynomial, which does not fly because I have to code this problem into MATLAB shortly...), so I guess I'm stuck again
 

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