How does the siphon method work and why does the pipe width matter?

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the siphon method of removing water, exploring its mechanics, the significance of pipe width, and the conditions under which siphoning ceases to function effectively. Participants examine diagrams, theoretical implications, and practical applications related to siphons.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants question the meaning of a diagram related to siphon flow, particularly the significance of two red lines meeting the ground at the same point.
  • There is a suggestion that if the pressure at point C in a siphon equals the vapor pressure of water, the siphon will stop functioning due to boiling.
  • One participant asserts that the diagram indicates symmetrical water flow from two points, but seeks clarification on the underlying physics of this observation.
  • Another participant proposes that the siphon requires a continuous flow of water, and that bubbles can disrupt this flow, potentially causing the siphon to fail.
  • A question is raised about the effects of changing the diameter of the siphon, specifically whether a larger diameter siphon with a smaller outflow diameter could allow for uphill water flow due to increased mass in the downhill section.
  • One participant argues that height is the critical factor for siphoning, rather than pipe width, and mentions that a wider pipe could lead to issues with bubbles rising faster than water can flow down, which may disrupt the siphon.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the importance of pipe width versus height in siphon operation, and there is no consensus on the implications of the diagram or the mechanics of siphoning under varying conditions.

Contextual Notes

Participants reference specific conditions under which siphoning may fail, such as the relationship between pressure and vapor pressure, but do not resolve the mathematical or physical details surrounding these claims.

Who May Find This Useful

Individuals interested in fluid dynamics, siphon mechanics, or practical applications of siphoning in various contexts may find this discussion relevant.

shalikadm
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1. I found this diagram on book but there weren't any description.can someone tell me, what its trying to tell specially by those two red lines meeting the ground at the same place...?
2013_05_23_15_32_52.jpg

2.this is a diagram for siphon method of removing water. I have read somewhere that the siphon stops if the pressure at point c is equal to the vapour pressure of water. what is the reason for that.?
Pc = Po - hρg
2013_05_23_17_02_26.jpg
 
Last edited:
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Handwritten in a book, with no descriptions? Uh huh...

The first question would be asking which pair of colored arcs accurately represent the path of water pouring out of that structure.

For the question on siphons, if the pressure at C equals or is lower than the vapor pressure of water, it boils and no longer can flow up the siphon.
 
Well, I guess it is just trying to tell you about the water flow. There doesn't seem to be anything aphysical about the diagram at least at first glance and without making any measurements or calculations. The two red lines indicate that the water flow from points symmetrically placed about the center will hit the ground at the same location.
 
physwizard said:
The two red lines indicate that the water flow from points symmetrically placed about the center will hit the ground at the same location.
Yes...so what's the physics behind that ? water drains from symetrically placed holes from the center will catch the ground at the same place...?

russ_watters said:
The first question would be asking which pair of colored arcs accurately represent the path of water pouring out of the structure
all arcs are paths of water pouring.red color shows some special feature..
russ_watters said:
it boils and no longer can flow up the siphon.
further...siphon needs a continuous flow of water.water bubbles disturb the continuous flow...am i correct?
 
Last edited:
Apologies if this thread is not exactly germane to my issue but... I have been unable to find information and comment re. the following: If I were to establish a large diameter siphon and have the outflow diameter reduced substantially by attaching a much smaller (but contiguous) tube, would I then be able to have an uphill endpoint for my water flow because the total water mass (and therefore the force exerted) in the "downhill" tube would far exceed that in the smaller "uphill" tube?
 
For this purpose it is height alone that matters, not pipe width. You get the same amount of suction with a 1/8 inch reed on the outlet side as you do with a 36 inch pipe.

There is a concern that if the pipe is too wide, bubbles can rise up the outflow faster than water carries them down. If this occurs, the water can drain out of the outflow until the siphon no longer works at all.
 

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