Why Does P=F/A Not Accurately Determine Surface Pressure in Thin-Walled Vessels?

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SUMMARY

The equation P=F/A fails to accurately determine surface pressure in thin-walled vessels because it only calculates average pressure, not the varying pressure distribution within the vessel. When a tank is filled to a height h, the pressure at the surface is significantly different from the pressure at the bottom due to hydrostatic pressure principles. This discrepancy arises from the fact that pressure increases with depth, necessitating a more nuanced approach to pressure calculations in fluid mechanics.

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Homework Statement


Here is the problem and the solution
ExqPf.png


Why does P=F/A not work?
 
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P=F/A gives you the average pressure. What's the pressure at the surface when the tank is filled to height h and what's the pressure at the bottom of the tank?
 

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