Can you calculate water velocity from m=f/A

In summary, the conversation discusses the calculation of water flow rates from fire hydrants and hoses. The Freeman formula and Bernoulli's equation are used to calculate the velocity of the water. However, there is a question about using P=F/A to calculate the velocity and it is determined that this is not a valid method. The conversation also mentions the use of Q as the quantity rate of water.
  • #1
Jim Sanderson
4
0
Hello, I was putting together some information to calculate water flow rates from fire hydrants and hoses. I have attached a copy in case anyone would be interested to have a look and point out any issues.

We use the Freeman formula for this which makes it pretty easy. Q=AV Q is quantity of water, A is area of outlet, V is velocity. To calculate velocity we use Bernoulli's Equation V=[tex]\sqrt{2gh}[/tex] g=gravity h=head or height of water source above outlet. As we normally use pressure not head we would substitute gh for P in kPA i.e. 10m of head pressure is equal to 9.91 x 10 = 98.1kPa.

I was wondering if we could calculate the velocity of the water using P=F/A F=ma?

Question: If we had a large square hose that was 1m x 1m with a cap on the end. There is a pressure gauge in the cap that reads 100kPa. Assume there is a massive dam 10m above the hose outlet, this will provide a constant water supply at 100kPa (although when water is flowing the pressure will be nil. If we were to remove the cap, what would be the velocity of the water as it leaves the hose? Can we use P=F/A F=ma?

Thanks for any assistance.
 

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  • #2
No, you cannot find equivalent force on an element of water. P = F/A, where F is lift. In the large reservoir, we assume F equals gravity; however it is not, or water won't flow.

BTW, Q is quatity rate of water.
 
  • #3
I suspect if you tried to derive yourself an equation starting with f=ma, you'd just end up deriving Bernoulli's equation. So just use that.
 

Related to Can you calculate water velocity from m=f/A

1. How do you calculate water velocity from the mass flow rate and cross-sectional area?

The formula for calculating water velocity from m=f/A is v = m/A, where v is the velocity, m is the mass flow rate, and A is the cross-sectional area. This formula assumes that the water flow is steady and the density of the water remains constant.

2. Why is it important to calculate water velocity?

Calculating water velocity is important for understanding the flow rate of water in a particular system. This information can be used to design and optimize systems, such as pipes or channels, for efficient water flow. It is also important for predicting the behavior of water in natural systems, such as rivers and streams.

3. What units should be used for the mass flow rate and cross-sectional area?

The mass flow rate should be measured in kilograms per second (kg/s) and the cross-sectional area should be measured in square meters (m^2) for the velocity to be calculated in meters per second (m/s).

4. Can this formula be used for any type of fluid?

Yes, this formula can be used for any type of fluid as long as the flow is steady and the density remains constant. However, the units for mass flow rate and cross-sectional area may vary depending on the fluid being used.

5. What other factors may affect water velocity in a system?

In addition to mass flow rate and cross-sectional area, other factors that may affect water velocity include the shape and size of the system, friction, and changes in elevation. These factors should be taken into consideration when designing and analyzing a system for water flow.

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