How to Calculate change in volume produced by a piston?

Click For Summary

Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around calculating the change in volume produced by a piston using the equation ∆V = A x ∆d, where A is the cross-sectional area and ∆d is the distance the piston moves. Participants are exploring the implications of unit conversions and the correct interpretation of the variables involved.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Conceptual clarification

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the values for area and distance, questioning the units of measurement (nanometers vs. meters) and the implications of these units on the calculation. There is also confusion regarding the conversion of units and how to properly multiply values in scientific notation.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants providing guidance on unit conversions and the importance of maintaining consistent units throughout the calculations. Some participants express uncertainty about their calculations, while others encourage clarity in the fundamental concepts involved.

Contextual Notes

There are indications of missing information regarding the complete problem statement and the values for the variables involved. Participants are also navigating the complexities of scientific notation and unit conversions, which are critical to solving the problem accurately.

  • #31
spacealgae said:
Awesome! Thank you very much! So now that's all figured out how would I multiply that by the atmospheric pressure, 0.25 A t m? Would I convert the A t m to scientific notation and then multiply?
It's a little more involved than that.

First, what are the units of work?

BTW, the unit 'atmosphere' is abbreviated 'atm.', not 'a t m'.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #32
I believe that units of work are in Joules. And sorry, I know it's 'atm', not 'a t m', but that's just how my homework had it, so I thought I just would just keep it like that. An error in my homework grammar, I guess.
 
  • #33
spacealgae said:
I believe that units of work are in Joules.

Yes. But joules are known as derived units in SI, which means they are made up of other fundamental units. What are the fundamental units which make up a joule?
 
  • #34
spacealgae said:
So, once I convert 1700nm to meters, that would be 1.7x10^-6.
Again, you're omitting the units in your answer. 1.7 x 10-6 in what units?

When you're working problems in physics, it's very important to keep track of the units.
 
  • #35
spacealgae said:
Area of piston=1x10^-16m^2
Can someone convince me that an exercise with such a "piston" is for real ?

:rolleyes:
 
  • #36
Sounds like some sort of nano-machine.
 

Similar threads

Replies
15
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
3K
  • · Replies 2 ·
Replies
2
Views
4K
Replies
4
Views
4K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
3K
Replies
6
Views
2K
  • · Replies 12 ·
Replies
12
Views
5K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
5K
Replies
12
Views
2K
Replies
18
Views
2K