Solving Pressure in U-tube with Different Densities

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    Pressure U-tube
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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves analyzing the behavior of two liquids with different densities in a U-tube setup. The specific densities given are 1.0 g cm-3 for liquid A and 0.8 g cm-3 for liquid B, with the goal of determining the height difference denoted as x.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants explore the possibility of the arrangement of the liquids based on their densities, questioning whether liquid A, being denser, could be on top of liquid B. There is also discussion about the interpretation of the problem statement regarding the densities of the liquids.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants confirming the possibility of a denser liquid being on top of a less dense one. Some participants express initial confusion about this concept but seem to gain clarity through the dialogue.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the lack of explicit wording in the problem statement that could clarify the arrangement of the liquids, leading to assumptions and interpretations being questioned.

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Homework Statement


Two liquids A and B of densities 1.0 g cm-3 and 0.8 g cm-3 are poured into an U-tube as shown in the figure below. Find x !

untitled.jpg


Homework Equations


P = \rho g h


The Attempt at a Solution


Is it possible liquid A is on top of liquid B because A has higher density than B?

Or do I misinterpret the question? Is it possible the question means density of A is 0.8 g cm-3 and B is 1.0 g cm-3 because there is no word "respectively" ?

Thanks
 
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songoku said:
Is it possible liquid A is on top of liquid B because A has higher density than B?
Sure, why not? Look at the diagram. Note that the height of liquid A is less than that of liquid B. There's a reason for that!
 
The statement looks correct, A is more dense than B. At the line PQ the pressure is the same. So more height of liquid above point P is needed to maintain the pressure the same as at point A.
 
Hi Doc Al and kuruman

Oh so it's possible that liquid with higher density is on top of liquid with lower density. I always think it's impossible.

I get it now. Thanks a lot Doc Al and kuruman ^^
 
songoku said:
Hi Doc Al and kuruman

Oh so it's possible that liquid with higher density is on top of liquid with lower density. I always think it's impossible.

I get it now. Thanks a lot Doc Al and kuruman ^^

Just imagine an iron piston pressing down on water in the U-tube and you'll see why it's possible.
 

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