Understanding Fluid Pressure: How Deep Can a Snorkeler Safely Dive?

  • Thread starter physics noob
  • Start date
  • Tags
    Fluids
In summary, the human lung can withstand a pressure difference of 0.06 atm between the inside and outside. When using a snorkel to breathe, the pressure inside is the pressure of the air being breathed, while the pressure outside is the water pressure at that depth. To calculate how far below the water surface a diver can go before risking lung damage, the equation P = Po + density(g)(h) can be used. The correct answer is 0.62m, which can be obtained by converting the pressure from atmospheres to Pascals before solving the equation.
  • #1
physics noob
41
0
human lung can withstand an inside/outside difference of about .06 atm. if a diver is using a snorkel to breathe, how far below the water surface can he get before he is risking lung damage? pressure of outside is the water pressure at that depth, while pressure inside is the pressure of the air being breathed.

this is what i have...

.06 = 1.01e5 / (1.01e5 + 1000(9.8)(h)

the above calc comes from equation P= Po +density(g)(h)...1000 is the density of water given to us, and 1.01e5 is atmospheric pressure,,,,, by solving for h i get an answer of 161.45 m...and not suprisingly I am way off, the correct answer is .62m where did i go wrong here
 
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
See the units for pressure you used on LHS and RHS
 
  • #3
im not sure i understand what you are saying
 
  • #4
On the left hand side you used pressure in atmospheres (0. 06atm). Whereas in the right hand side you used pressure in Pascals (1.01* 10^5 Pascals).
Since the SI unit of pressure is Pascals (and you used value of g as 9.8 m/sec^2, which is expressed in SI units), you should convert the pressure from atmospheres to Pascals before you calculate.
 
  • #5
you are right on siddarth,.,,,, thanks a lot
 

1. What causes a fluid to behave differently than expected?

A fluid's behavior can be affected by several factors, such as its density, viscosity, and surface tension. Changes in temperature, pressure, and flow velocity can also alter a fluid's behavior.

2. What are some common problems encountered when working with fluids?

Some common problems with fluids include leaks, contamination, and turbulent flow. Other issues may arise from changes in the fluid's properties, such as phase changes or chemical reactions.

3. How can we solve problems with fluid flow?

Solving problems with fluid flow often involves understanding the underlying principles and equations governing fluid behavior. Techniques such as dimensional analysis, numerical simulations, and experimental testing can also help identify and address issues with fluid flow.

4. What are some practical applications of studying fluid problems?

The study of fluid problems has many practical applications, including designing efficient pipelines and pumps, developing weather and climate models, and understanding the behavior of blood flow in the human body. It also plays a crucial role in industries such as aerospace, automotive, and oil and gas.

5. How can we prevent or minimize problems with fluids?

Preventing or minimizing problems with fluids can involve proper maintenance and monitoring of equipment, using appropriate materials and additives, and controlling environmental factors such as temperature and pressure. Conducting thorough analysis and testing before implementing new fluid systems can also help identify and address potential issues before they arise.

Similar threads

  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
5
Views
896
  • Biology and Medical
Replies
11
Views
2K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
1
Views
912
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
12
Views
1K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
5K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
2
Views
4K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
3K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
13
Views
10K
Replies
15
Views
3K
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
7
Views
7K
Back
Top