Why Does a Bubble Move to the Middle in a Horizontal Pipe?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the behavior of a bubble in a closed horizontal pipe, specifically why it tends to move to the middle rather than remaining in other positions. The primary force at play is buoyancy, which is defined by the equation pgV, where p is the fluid density, g is the acceleration due to gravity, and V is the volume of the bubble. Additionally, the conversation touches on the mechanics of a spirit level, noting that the internal structure of the spirit level pipe is barrel-shaped rather than perfectly cylindrical, which influences bubble behavior.

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vladim1
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Hi people.

Please explain me, why in a horisontal pipe (closed) a bubble go to middle, and not stay in any other position?

Also what is the difference of forces when this bubble moves from right/left to middle and when it rise from bottom to top.


I know bubble rise due to buoyancy, which is equal with pgV. But in horisontal case, this force seems to be less.

Thanks.
 
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Hello,
is this question so difficult?? At least, pleas, can someone explain me how spirit level works.
 
vladim1 said:
Hello,
is this question so difficult?? At least, pleas, can someone explain me how spirit level works.
The inside of the spirit level pipe is not a perfect cylinder, but rather a barell:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spirit_level
 

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