Solving Archimedes Principle Homework: Understanding Derivation

AI Thread Summary
The discussion focuses on understanding the derivation of Archimedes' principle, specifically the relationship between buoyant force and pressure differences. It explains how the buoyant force is calculated by considering the pressure at the top and bottom of a submerged object, leading to the equation ΔF = ρ*g*V. Participants clarify that the term (ρ * ρ') in the final equation is a misprint, and the correct expression should be ΔF = mg(ρ/ρ'). The conversation highlights the importance of accurately following the derivation steps to grasp the concept fully. Overall, the thread aims to clarify confusion regarding the final line of the derivation.
funcosed
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Homework Statement


trying to make sense of this derivation...


Homework Equations


Buoyant force is not an independent force but is derived from difference in pressure from the bottom of an object to its top.

Lets say an object of density "ρ'" is located "d" meters down the surface of a liquid of density "ρ" relative to its upper surface so the upper surface experience a force of water pressure equal to

P1= ρ*g*d

Also assuming that the object itself is "h" meters in heights then the lower part is h +d meters down the surface and experiences a Pressure of

P2 = ρ*g* (d+h)

obviously P2 > P1

so ΔP = P2 - P1 = ρ*g* (d + h - d) = ρ*g*h

and then,

ΔP = ΔF / A = ρ*g*h

so we have

ΔF = ρ*g*h*A = ρ*g*V ; here V is the volume of the object that is submerged in the liquid, g is the gravity constant, and ρ is the density of the liquid.

Also since we have:

ΔF = ρ*g*V and ρ' = m / V so V = m / ρ' we have,

ΔF = ΔF = ρ*g*Vρ*g* (m / ρ') = (ρ * ρ')(mg) = W(object)* (ρ * ρ')

The Attempt at a Solution


I can follow most of it but not the last line. It looks like an equals sign has been left out
ΔF = ΔF = ρ*g*V = ρ*g* (m / ρ') ??
but then where does the (ρ * ρ') term come from??
 
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hi funcosed! :wink:
funcosed said:
I can follow most of it but not the last line. It looks like an equals sign has been left out
ΔF = ΔF = ρ*g*V = ρ*g* (m / ρ') ??
but then where does the (ρ * ρ') term come from??

yes, it should be ΔF = ρ*g*V = ρ*g* (m / ρ') = mg(ρ/ρ') …

that last * is a misprint :smile:
 
thanks
 
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