Working mechanism of straws and siphon

  • Thread starter sss1
  • Start date
  • #1
sss1
50
2
Homework Statement
What's the difference in the working mechanism between a straw and a siphon? Why do you only need to suck on the siphon once for continuous flow of the liquid whereas if you stop sucking on a straw then liquid stops flowing?
Relevant Equations
NA
Is it because for a siphon since the end where the liquid exits is lower than the container level so when the pipe is sucked all the air in the pipe is gone and so liquid moves due to differential pressure, and gravity pulls the liquid down, removing the air in the pipe as the liquid comes down, so this differential pressure is maintained so the liquid just keeps flowing down? Whereas for a straw when you stop sucking on the straw there is no longer a differential pressure to keep the liquid flowing?
 
Last edited:
Physics news on Phys.org
  • #2
Watch this video and answer your own question.

 

Related to Working mechanism of straws and siphon

1. How do straws work?

Straws work by utilizing the principle of atmospheric pressure. When you suck on one end of the straw, you create a low pressure area inside the straw. This causes the liquid to rise up the straw and into your mouth.

2. What is the purpose of the bend in a straw?

The bend in a straw allows you to easily drink from a glass without having to tilt your head. It also helps to create a seal between your mouth and the straw, allowing you to suck up the liquid more easily.

3. How does a siphon work?

A siphon works by utilizing the force of gravity. When the siphon is filled with liquid and one end is placed in a lower position than the other, gravity pulls the liquid down and creates a vacuum. This vacuum then pulls the liquid up and over the top of the siphon and into the lower container.

4. Why does a siphon only work if the end is lower than the liquid level?

A siphon only works if the end is lower than the liquid level because it relies on gravity to create the vacuum that pulls the liquid up and over the top of the siphon. If the end is not lower than the liquid level, the vacuum cannot be created and the siphon will not work.

5. Can a siphon work with any type of liquid?

Yes, a siphon can work with any type of liquid as long as the liquid is able to flow freely and there is a difference in height between the two ends of the siphon. However, thicker or more viscous liquids may require a larger or wider siphon tube in order to flow properly.

Similar threads

  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
3
Views
456
Replies
2
Views
334
  • Introductory Physics Homework Help
Replies
9
Views
2K
Replies
17
Views
2K
Replies
12
Views
2K
  • Mechanical Engineering
Replies
11
Views
2K
Replies
2
Views
1K
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • Engineering and Comp Sci Homework Help
Replies
9
Views
2K
Replies
6
Views
875
Back
Top