What is the correct equation for volume flow rate in an inclined pipe?

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the equation for volume flow rate in an inclined pipe, specifically addressing the terms involved in the pressure difference and gravitational effects. Participants are examining the implications of gauge pressure and the conditions under which the fluid flows from one point to another.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants are questioning the validity of the equation provided by the author, particularly the inclusion of the term (rho)(g)(L sin theta) in the context of pressure differences. There are discussions about the definitions of P1 and P2, and whether P2 should be considered as zero gauge pressure.

Discussion Status

Some participants are exploring the reasoning behind the equation's structure and the assumptions made regarding pressure at different points in the pipe. There is a focus on understanding the relationship between pressure, elevation, and fluid flow, with references to static equilibrium conditions. No consensus has been reached, but various interpretations are being discussed.

Contextual Notes

Participants note that P2 is zero gauge pressure since the pipe discharges to the atmosphere, which influences the interpretation of the pressure difference. The discussion also touches on the relevance of the Navier-Stokes equations, although familiarity with them varies among participants.

foo9008
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Homework Statement


in the solution , the author gave that volume flow rate = delta P - (rho)(g)(L sin theta) ,
IMO , it's wrong ...
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Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


it should be P1 - (rho)(g)(L sin theta) , where (rho)(g)(L) = P2 , correct me if i am wrong . i think so because i consider P1 - (rho)(g)(L sin theta) as delta P
 
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P2 is zero gauge. the pipe discharges to the atmosphere.
 
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Chestermiller said:
P2 is zero gauge. the pipe discharges to the atmosphere.
why the author wrote it as delta P - (rho)(g)(L sin theta) ? why not only delta P , which is Pressure at region 1 only ( the P2 = 0 ) ? why there's an extra (rho)(g)(L sin theta) ?
 
foo9008 said:
why the author wrote it as delta P - (rho)(g)(L sin theta) ? why not only delta P , which is Pressure at region 1 only ( the P2 = 0 ) ? why there's an extra (rho)(g)(L sin theta) ?
Are you familiar with the Navier Stokes equations?
 
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Chestermiller said:
Are you familiar with the Navier Stokes equations?
no , i have never heard of that
 
If the fluid were in static equilibrium, then we would have $$P_1+\rho g z_1=P_2+\rho g z_2$$In this problem, they are taking the datum for elevation z as location 1, the entrance to the pipe section. So ##z_1=0##. So for static equilibrium, our equation becomes:$$P_1=P_2+\rho g z_2$$ The elevation ##z_2## is related to the length of the pipe and the pipe angle by:$$z_2=L\sin \theta$$. Therefore, for static equilibrium, we have:
$$P_1=P_2+\rho g L\sin \theta$$Now, if ##P_1>P_2+\rho g L\sin \theta##, the fluid will flow from point 1 (the inlet) to point 2 (the outlet). Therefore, the driving force for fluid flow from entrance to exit is ##P_1-P_2-\rho g L\sin \theta=\Delta P-\rho g L\sin \theta##.
 
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