Hydrostatic pressure forces and torque

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves determining the torque on a rectangular gate at a dam, which is hinged at its top edge and affected by hydrostatic pressure from water above it. The gate's dimensions and the water level are specified, but the original poster expresses confusion about how the gate relates to the problem setup.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Problem interpretation

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • The original poster attempts to apply relevant equations but struggles with the conceptual understanding of the gate's role in the problem. Some participants question whether the problem fits better in a different forum, while others suggest that it is appropriate for introductory physics.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants offering varying perspectives on the appropriateness of the problem's placement and the original poster's approach. There is a suggestion for a diagram to aid understanding, indicating that visual aids may enhance clarity.

Contextual Notes

The original poster has indicated a lack of understanding regarding the problem's requirements and has removed a diagram that may have been helpful. There is a mention of the problem being potentially beyond the scope of what has been covered in their course.

Dr_bug
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Homework Statement


Consider the dam in example 3. Suppose there is a rectangular gate near the top of the dam that can be used to release water. The gate is 4 m wide and 3 m tall and is hinged at its top edge so that it will close under its own weight. Determine the torque on the gate for rotation about its top edge when the water level is 8 m above its edge. see attachment for picture from example 3.


Homework Equations


Fℓ=(pgh)*(w dh)*(d-h)
w=sh +b
τ=∫[(pgh)*(sh +b)*(d-h)]dh-------going from 0 to d

The Attempt at a Solution


I'm having trouble getting started on this problem because i don't see how the gate fits into the picture. I'm not really understanding what they are asking. I would really appreciate any help at all... explanations of what I should do...
 

Attachments

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Sorry if this doesn't help you but I think this question might be better placed in the engineering section. A fluid mechanics specialist would be able to help you out for this. I may just be tired but I believe this is beyond what I've covered so far in that subject.
 
okay I'll try...its just that this is an intro physics course and i didn't think about putting it elsewhere
 
I don't think it's beyond introductory physics, and what the OP did is probably on the right track. Do you have a diagram though, Dr. bug? It's kinda confusing without one.
 
oh yeah sorry i removed it when i reposted on the other page i'll put it back
 
okay i re-uploaded figure
 

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