Pressure formula and infinitesimal

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on the pressure formula in classical physics, defined as P = dF⊥ / dS. Participants clarify that dF⊥ represents the infinitesimal change in force corresponding to a change in surface area (dS). They emphasize that when pressure remains constant, a decrease in surface area results in a proportional decrease in the force, as pressure is defined as force per unit area. The total force is derived by integrating pressure over the surface area.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of classical physics principles
  • Familiarity with calculus concepts, particularly infinitesimals
  • Knowledge of the relationship between force, pressure, and area
  • Ability to perform integration in mathematical contexts
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation and applications of the pressure formula in fluid mechanics
  • Explore the concept of infinitesimals in calculus and their physical interpretations
  • Learn about integration techniques relevant to calculating forces over varying surfaces
  • Investigate real-world applications of pressure in engineering and physics
USEFUL FOR

Students of classical physics, educators teaching physics concepts, and professionals in engineering fields who require a solid understanding of pressure and force relationships.

Aleoa
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I'm studing classical physics and I'm stuck with the simple pressure formula defined as:

P=\frac{dF_{\perp }}{dS}

Now, i know some calculus and the concept of infinitesimal in physics; however what i don't understand is :

1) according with the fact that in Calculus dF_{\perp } represent an infinitesimal change, it's an infinitesimal change from which quantity ?

2) If we obtain a constant value for the pressure, this means that the dF_{\perp } decreases as i take smaller dS (according with the definition of limit ) . Why the force decreases as the surface decreases ?
 
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Aleoa said:
1) according with the fact that in Calculus dF_{\perp } represent an infinitesimal change, it's an infinitesimal change from which quantity ?

It is the change in the force if you change the area.
2) If we obtain a constant value for the pressure, this means that the dF_{\perp } decreases as i take smaller dS (according with the definition of limit ) . Why the force decreases as the surface decreases ?
Because you have assumed constant pressure. Pressure is force per area. If you have the same pressure but double the area, the force will be twice as large.
 
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But the force is defined point to point ?
 
No, it is the total force. You integrate the pressure over the surface to obtain the total force.
 

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