Understanding Bernoulli's Equation for Fluid Dynamics with Electric Pumps

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the application of Bernoulli's equation in fluid dynamics, specifically in scenarios involving electric pumps. Participants explore how to correctly incorporate the work done by pumps into the equation, addressing both theoretical and practical aspects of fluid flow in systems with pumps.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Technical explanation, Debate/contested, Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant expresses difficulty in applying Bernoulli's equation when electric pumps are involved, particularly in understanding how to account for work done on the system.
  • Another participant prompts for an attempt to answer a specific part of the problem, indicating a collaborative approach to problem-solving.
  • A participant shares their answer but expresses uncertainty due to obtaining a negative value for the pump power, suggesting potential confusion or misapplication of the equation.
  • Another participant critiques an assumption made regarding the energy difference between two points, clarifying that the work done by the pump should be considered as additive at the entry point rather than subtractive, which may affect the interpretation of energy terms in the equation.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not appear to reach a consensus, as there are differing interpretations of how to apply Bernoulli's equation in the context of pumps, and some assumptions are challenged without resolution.

Contextual Notes

There are unresolved assumptions regarding the treatment of energy terms in the presence of pumps, and the discussion highlights potential misunderstandings in the application of Bernoulli's equation.

mattyboson12
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Hi, am having a few problems applying bernoulli's equation when an electric pump is involved. I have attached a picture of the question. I understand how to apply bernoullis for venturi and pitot tubes but when it involves work being done on the system eg. a water pump, fan exhaust I don't know where to start.
 

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Can you attempt to answer part a)?
 
Thank you for the reply. This is my answer but I'm not sure if its right as I am getting a negative value for the pump power?
 

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For part b), you assumed that the difference between the energies at point 1 and 5 is equal to the Work done by the pump. This is correct except the Work is effectively being added to the system at point 1. You incorrectly assumed it is being subtracted from point 1 (or equivalently that it was being added at point 5).

The water coming out at point 5 doesn't really know if there was a pump or if the water level was much higher than that as shown at point 1. So all the energy terms should be additive at point 1 and be set equal to the energy terms at point 5.
 

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