How Do You Calculate the Density of Oil in a Multi-Tube Setup?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the density of oil in a multi-tube setup where water and oil are present in a tube open to the atmosphere. The relevant parameters include a tube diameter of 12.3mm and a length of 135mm. The pressure equations derived from fluid mechanics principles are used to equate the pressures on both sides of the tube, leading to the formula: P_{atm} + ρ_{water}g(0.135 m) = P_{atm} + ρ_{oil}g(0.135 m + 0.0123 m). This allows for the determination of the oil's density relative to water.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of fluid mechanics principles, particularly pressure calculations.
  • Familiarity with the concept of hydrostatic pressure.
  • Knowledge of basic algebra for solving equations.
  • Ability to interpret fluid dynamics scenarios involving multiple fluids.
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  • Study hydrostatic pressure calculations in fluid mechanics.
  • Learn about the principles of buoyancy and density in fluids.
  • Explore applications of the hydrostatic pressure equation in real-world scenarios.
  • Investigate the effects of temperature on fluid density and pressure.
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Students in physics or engineering disciplines, particularly those studying fluid mechanics, as well as professionals involved in fluid dynamics and related fields.

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Homework Statement


Now two fluids are placed in the same tube (d). Both sides are open to the atmosphere without pistons. One fluid is water and the other (on top of the water in the left branch of the tube) is an oil of unknown density. l = 135mm and d = 12.3mm. What is the density of the oil?
Image here:
http://screencast.com/t/ZGEwODAy

Homework Equations



change in pressure=density*g*h

The Attempt at a Solution



I'm not sure how to start. I feel this is going to be the hardest topic for me to grasp
 
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Ok so start by looking at the picture. Look at the depth d + l. On the right side you have the atmosphere and some water pressing down at that point. On the left side you have the atmosphere and oil (more than the amount of water pressing down on the right). Therefore we expect the density of the oil to be smaller than water.

One of the principles of fluid mechanics is that the same liquid will have the same pressure at the same depth. For example, let's look at the water at depth d + l.

On the right side the pressure is this:

P = P_{atm} + \rho_{water}g(0.135 m)

On the left side the pressure is this:

P = P_{atm} + \rho_{oil}g(0.135 m + 0.0123 m)

Set the two equations equal to each other and solve for \rho_{oil}
 

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