What is the tallest straw that you could, in principle, drink from

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Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the physics of drinking through a straw, specifically exploring the maximum height of a straw from which one could theoretically drink water. The subject area includes fluid mechanics and pressure concepts.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss the mechanics of how water is drawn up a straw, with one participant attempting to apply pressure equations to determine the maximum height. Questions about the role of atmospheric pressure and the assumptions involved in the calculations are also raised.

Discussion Status

The conversation is ongoing, with some participants providing insights into the physics involved and others questioning the assumptions made in the calculations. There is a recognition of the role of atmospheric pressure in supporting the water column, but no consensus has been reached on the interpretation of the results.

Contextual Notes

Participants are considering the effects of gravity and atmospheric pressure, with some noting the simplifications made in their calculations, such as rounding gravity to 10 m/s². The discussion reflects a mix of understanding and uncertainty regarding the principles at play.

ruffkilla
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As a stunt, you want to sip some water through a very long, vertical straw. what is the tallest straw that you could, in principle, drink from in this way?
 
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Well, what do you think?
 
well i know the answer is 10 m if you round gravity to 10 m/s^2. i also know that the pressure on the top of the straw is 0 Pa. but besides that i have no clue, that's why I am asking it.
 
When you sip through a straw, what pushes the water up the straw?
 
the vacuum created by sucking your cheeks in.
i came up with this solution.
P1 + rough (g) (h1) = P2 + rough (g) (h2)
P1=0, h1=0
so P2 = rough (g)(h2)
1 atm= 1000(10)(h2)
1.01 EE5=1.0EE4(h2)
h2= 10 m

but I am not sure.
 
Looks like you've got it. It's atmospheric pressure that pushes the water up the straw. The maximum height of water that can be supported by the air will be found by setting the water pressure (\rho g h) equal to atmospheric pressure.
 

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