The discussion revolves around the validity of an equation for calculating the pressure at the bottom of a fully submerged object, specifically a cube. Participants explore the implications of pressure distribution, buoyancy, and the influence of object density in a static versus dynamic context.
Participants do not reach a consensus on the correctness of the equation. Multiple competing views are presented regarding the factors that influence pressure in submerged objects.
Participants express uncertainty about the assumptions underlying the equation and the definitions of terms used, particularly in relation to buoyancy and pressure distribution.
Well, in my textbook it says that the pressure is the density of the liquid x h [2] x g.Mister T said:What makes you think it's wrong?
Sorry I am not quite sure what you mean!mfb said:Why do you expect it to be right?
How do you imagine the pressure distribution close to the edge of the object? Jumping?
Is this a static situation? If you include dynamics, things get more complicated.
Olivia197 said:Well, in my textbook it says that the pressure is the density of the liquid x h [2] x g.
Olivia197 said:Please may somebody explain why this equation for the pressure at the bottom of a fully submerged object is wrong
Well, reduce it to the first question: why do you expect your expression to be right?Olivia197 said:Sorry I am not quite sure what you mean!
Could (s)he express, in words, what that equation is describing? That may help with the understanding.mfb said:Well, reduce it to the first question: why do you expect your expression to be right?
I see where you are going with this but the hydrostatic pressure is not really affected by the density of the object (or the object at all). The pressure at the bottom face is due to the column of fluid, rather than the object (unless there is some extra factor involved that we haven't been told about).russ_watters said:That equation might work -- is the object neutrally, positively or negatively buoyant? Is it moving or constrained not to move?
The answer to my question is "other factors" and will actually push the solution toward the normal hydrostatic pressure equation when the OP realizes the impact of the constraints the answer adds.sophiecentaur said:I see where you are going with this but the hydrostatic pressure is not really affected by the density of the object (or the object at all). The pressure at the bottom face is due to the column of fluid, rather than the object (unless there is some extra factor involved that we haven't been told about).