Hydrodynamics : Calculate force exerted by fluid on Tube

AI Thread Summary
The discussion revolves around calculating the net force exerted by a fluid on a tube bent into a circular arc. The initial calculation involves determining the centripetal force on a small mass element, leading to an expression for force based on fluid density, speed, and tube cross-section. The user finds a discrepancy between their calculated force and the book's answer, prompting questions about the integration limits and vector considerations. Key insights suggest focusing on the change in momentum rather than merely summing outward radial forces. The resolution emphasizes that the shape of the tube is less critical than understanding the flow direction at entry and exit points.
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Homework Statement



A tube of uniform cross-section A is bent to form a circular arc of radius R, forming three quarters of a circle. A liquid of density \rho is forced through the tube with a linear speed v. Find the net force exerted by the liquid on the tube.

2. The attempt at a solution

The centripetal force acting on a small element of dm mass will be

dF=\frac{v^2}{R}dm=\frac{\rho v^2}{R}dV=\frac{\rho A v^2}{R}dl.

Integrating with proper limits, I got

F=\frac{\rho A v^2}{R}\int_{0}^{3\pi R/2}dl=\frac{3\pi A \rho v^2}{2}

However the answer provided in my book is \sqrt{2} \rho Av^2 .What am I doing wrong. Can someone guide me?
 
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It says 'net force', but you added all the outward radial forces by magnitude, not as vectors. In fact, the shape doesn't matter. All you need to know is the direction of the flow at entry and exit. What is the change in momentum?
 
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