What is the Density Ratio of a Submerged Ball in a Fluid?

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on calculating the density ratio of a submerged ball in a fluid, specifically a solid uniform ball of mass 3M. The key equations used include the buoyant force equation (Fb = ρVg) and the gravitational force equation (Fg = mg). The correct relationship derived is that the density of the fluid (ρ_fluid) equals two times the density of the ball (ρ_ball), expressed as ρ_fluid = 2ρ_ball. This conclusion is reached by balancing the forces acting on the ball and considering the weights of the ball and the displaced fluid.

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Homework Statement



A block of mass M is attached to a light string. The string passes over a massless, frictionless pulley and is attached to a solid uniform ball of mass 3M. The ball is at rest and completely submerged in a fluid as shown. What is the ratio of the density of the fluid to the ball?

Density.jpg


Homework Equations



Fb = (rho)Vg
Fg = mg

The Attempt at a Solution



The forces acting upward must balance the forces acting downward on the ball. Thus,

Fb + Tension = Fg

Then,

(rho)Vg + T = 3Mg

We know that the tension in the string is equal to M because it is keeping the block at rest. Thus,

(rho)Vg + Mg = 3Mg
(rho)Vg = 2Mg

Divide both sides by Vg and we obtain:

(rho(fluid)) = 2(rho(ball))

This is not the correct answer. Can someone explain what I'm doing wrong?
 
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What is the buoyant force on the ball?

It has 3*M*g acting down - its weight. It is in equilibrium so the buoyant force must be 2*M*g

The weight of displaced water then is density water times Volume = 2*M*g

But in that same volume is 3*M*g

Consider then the ratio of the weights of the ball, and the displaced water. Won't that ratio be the ratio of the densities since the volume is he same?
 
LowlyPion said:
What is the buoyant force on the ball?

It has 3*M*g acting down - its weight. It is in equilibrium so the buoyant force must be 2*M*g

The weight of displaced water then is density water times Volume = 2*M*g

But in that same volume is 3*M*g

Consider then the ratio of the weights of the ball, and the displaced water. Won't that ratio be the ratio of the densities since the volume is he same?

Ahh, you're a lifesaver. Thank you!
 

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