Variation of Pressure with Depth

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SUMMARY

The total pressure at a depth of 850 meters in seawater is calculated using the formula P = P(initial) + ρgh, where P(initial) is 1.01 x 10^5 Pascals, ρ is the water density of 1000 kg/m³, g is the acceleration due to gravity at 9.8 m/s², and h is the depth of 850 m. The resulting pressure at this depth is 8.33 x 10^6 Pascals. To find the factor by which the total pressure at this depth exceeds atmospheric pressure, the ratio of total pressure to atmospheric pressure must be calculated, leading to a factor of approximately 82.5.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of hydrostatic pressure principles
  • Familiarity with the formula P = P(initial) + ρgh
  • Basic knowledge of units of pressure (Pascals)
  • Ability to perform ratio calculations
NEXT STEPS
  • Research hydrostatic pressure and its applications in fluid mechanics
  • Learn about the properties of seawater and its density variations
  • Study the concept of pressure ratios in different fluid contexts
  • Explore advanced applications of pressure calculations in engineering
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Students studying physics, engineers working with fluid dynamics, and anyone interested in understanding pressure variations in fluids.

jer_hall99
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Homework Statement


By what factor is the total pressure greater at a depth of 850 m of sea water than at the surface where the pressure is one atmosphere? (water density = 1000 kg/m3, one atmosphere pressure = 1.01 x 105 Pascals (N/m2), g = 9.8 m/s2 )


Homework Equations


P=P(initial)+ρgh


The Attempt at a Solution


P=(1.01x10^5)+(1000kg/m^3*9.8m/s^2*850m)
 
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Your calculation gives you the pressure at the depth of 850m. The question is worded...'by what factor is the total pressure greater at a depth of 850m... I think this means you are expected to give your answer as a ratio??
 
ok, well how would I do that? the possible answers to the question are a. 100, b. 83, c. 74, d. 19. That is where I am stuck.
 
using P = hρg I got the pressure due to the water to be 8.33 x 10^6 Pa
Atmospheric pressure is 1.01 x 10^5 Pa
Get the ratio ?
 

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