Variation of Pressure with Depth

Click For Summary

Homework Help Overview

The problem involves calculating the variation of pressure with depth in a fluid, specifically sea water, at a depth of 850 meters compared to the surface pressure of one atmosphere. The relevant parameters include water density, gravitational acceleration, and atmospheric pressure.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Assumption checking, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the calculation of pressure at a given depth and the interpretation of the question regarding the factor by which pressure increases. There is a focus on determining the ratio of pressures rather than just the absolute values.

Discussion Status

Some participants have provided calculations for pressure at depth and are exploring how to express the result as a ratio. There is an ongoing inquiry into the correct interpretation of the question and how to derive the factor of increase in pressure.

Contextual Notes

Participants note the potential answers provided in the problem and express uncertainty about how to arrive at the correct ratio. The discussion reflects a need for clarity on the expected format of the answer.

jer_hall99
Messages
9
Reaction score
0

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)
 
Physics news on Phys.org
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 ?
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
4K
  • · Replies 25 ·
Replies
25
Views
3K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
2K
Replies
6
Views
5K
  • · Replies 9 ·
Replies
9
Views
3K
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
1K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
4K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
2K