Math Problem Statement
The inverted U-tube manometer shown below is used for measuring pressure differences in liquids. The manometer contains two fluids, with one fluid having a specific gravity of 13 (SG1 = 13). Given that PA - PD = 32 kPa, determine the specific gravity of the second fluid. Assume the atmospheric pressure is 100 kPa, acceleration due to gravity g=9.8 m/s2, and the density of water is 1000 kg/m3. (35 marks: 10 marks for the correct answer and 25 marks for showing the correct working)
Solution
To solve the problem, we need to determine the specific gravity (SG2) of the second fluid using the information provided in the problem and the diagram.
Given:
- Specific gravity of the first fluid, .
- Pressure difference, kPa.
- Atmospheric pressure, kPa.
- Acceleration due to gravity, m/s².
- Density of water, kg/m³.
Assumptions:
- The fluids are incompressible.
- Hydrostatic pressure equation is applicable.
Step 1: Understand the relationship between pressure and specific gravity.
Specific gravity (SG) is defined as the ratio of the density of the fluid to the density of water. Mathematically: where is the density of the fluid.
For the manometer, the pressure difference is determined by the height difference of the fluids and their densities.
Step 2: Write the pressure equation for the U-tube.
Considering that pressure difference between points A and D is due to the height of fluid columns in the manometer: Where:
- and are the densities of the two fluids.
- and are the heights of the two columns.
The pressure difference between points A and D is: Given that kPa, we have:
Step 3: Relate densities to specific gravities.
Let be the specific gravity of the second fluid:
Step 4: Express the equation in terms of SG2.
Now substitute the densities into the equation: Simplifying the equation:
Step 5: Final Solution.
To solve for , we need the ratio . If this information is known or provided in the diagram, substitute it in to find .
If you can provide the ratio or confirm the values of and , we can continue with the calculation.
Let me know if you need further clarification or details on any part of the solution. Below are some questions to help deepen your understanding:
- What would happen to the specific gravity of the second fluid if the pressure difference was higher?
- How does the atmospheric pressure influence the readings in a U-tube manometer?
- What assumptions are necessary for the hydrostatic pressure equation to be valid in this setup?
- How would the result change if the specific gravity of the first fluid were different?
- What physical properties of the fluids could cause errors in the pressure measurements?
Tip: Always cross-check the dimensions when working with pressure-related problems to ensure consistency across all units.
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Math Problem Analysis
Mathematical Concepts
Fluid Mechanics
Hydrostatics
Pressure Measurement
Formulas
Specific Gravity (SG) formula: SG = ρ / ρ_water
Hydrostatic pressure equation: P_A - P_D = ρ1 * g * h1 - ρ2 * g * h2
Density relation: ρ = SG * ρ_water
Theorems
Pascal's Law
Hydrostatic Pressure Principle
Suitable Grade Level
Undergraduate - Engineering or Physics