Will Both Bags Fill at the Same Rate? Thoughts and Answers Needed

  • Context: High School 
  • Thread starter Thread starter Lutzee
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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the question of whether two air-tight bags (2 and 3) will fill at the same rate when supplied with air from a rigid pipe (1) through another rigid pipe (4). The inquiry touches on principles of fluid dynamics and pressure distribution in a system with multiple outlets.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants propose that the pressure will remain equal throughout the system, suggesting that the inflation rates of both bags should be the same, assuming no restrictions are present.
  • Others argue that without specific information about the sizes of the pipes and flow rates, a definitive answer cannot be provided. They highlight that the velocity of air in the supply pipe (1) and the configuration of the connecting pipe (4) could affect the distribution of air between the bags.
  • A later reply acknowledges the complexity of the situation and admits to jumping to conclusions without considering all factors.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not reach a consensus. While some believe the bags will fill at the same rate under certain assumptions, others emphasize the need for more information to make a meaningful determination.

Contextual Notes

Limitations include the lack of details regarding the sizes of the pipes and bags, the flow rates, and any potential restrictions in the system that could influence the air distribution.

Lutzee
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Ok imagine this:


--1---|------2-------
|
4
|
|-------3------

1 is a rigid pipe supplying air at a constant rate
2 and 3 are elongated air tight cloth bags of equal volume
4 is a rigid pipe connecting the 1,2 and 3 together

Would both the bags fill at the same rate?

I think they would and i THINK I know why, but i am not sure.

Could someone tell me if they would/wouln't and why that is the case?

Thanks for your time.
 
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The pressure will remain equal throughout the system, so the inflation rates should be the same. This assumes that there aren't any restrictions such as valves or regulators.
 
Since the OP hasn't provided any information about sizes or flow rates, we can't give a meaningful answer. Ie, are 1 and 4 equal in size? And speed matters too - if the velocity of the air in 1 is high and 4 T's off it, there will not be an even split of air.
 
Good points. I spake too soon. :redface:
 

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