Question

Two vessels of area of cross-section X cm' and Y cm' is filled with water up to the same level.
the pressure exerted in the two vessels at its base be similar or different, why? Also state the factors
which determine the pressure exerted in fluids. ​

Answer 1

• Since h is the same for both vessels $pressure =hρg$ is the same.

• Now,$force = pressure × base area$

• Since the base area is the same, the force exerted by water on the base is the same for both vessels. $Thus, FX = FY.$

• The liquid exerts pressure, and hence force, not only on the base but also on the sides of the vessel.

• This force is normal to the sides of the vessel.

• For vessel Y, this force has no component in the downward direction.

• But for the vessel X, this force has a non-zero component vertically downwards.

• Hence, vessel X gives a higher reading than vessel Y when they are weighed on a weighing scale. $Thus, WX > WY$

• Hence, the correction option is Y.