How Do You Calculate the Force Exerted by Water in a Tank?

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SUMMARY

The force exerted by water in a tank can be calculated using the formula F = pA, where p is the pressure and A is the area. For the aquarium tank measuring 100 cm long, 35 cm wide, and 40 cm deep, the pressure at the bottom can be determined using the static head equation Ph = ρgh, with ρ being the density of water (approximately 1000 kg/m³), g as the acceleration due to gravity (9.81 m/s²), and h as the height of the water (0.4 m). The force on the bottom of the tank is calculated as F = pA, where A is the area of the bottom (100 cm x 35 cm), and the force on the front window is calculated similarly using the height of the tank.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of fluid mechanics principles
  • Knowledge of pressure calculation in fluids
  • Familiarity with basic physics equations
  • Ability to perform unit conversions (cm to m)
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of the hydrostatic pressure formula Ph = ρgh
  • Learn how to calculate force using F = pA in various contexts
  • Explore applications of fluid mechanics in real-world scenarios
  • Investigate the effects of fluid density variations on pressure calculations
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Students studying physics, engineers working with fluid systems, and anyone involved in designing or analyzing tanks and containers filled with liquids.

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Homework Statement



An aquarium tank is 100 cm long, 35 cm wide, and 40 cm deep. It is filled to the top.
What is the force of the water on the bottom (100cmX35cm) of the tank?
What is the force of the water on the front window (100x40) of the tank?

Homework Equations


this where i am unsure is it just f=mg? or F=pA. how do i get p?

The Attempt at a Solution


tried the equations above and got nowhere. also tried to solve using the density of water to find the mass but got nowhere so please advise thanks.
 
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