Manometer Question

[Alpha Centauri]

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Hey guys, question.

If you replace the level of mercury in a manometer with water, why would the column rise in height, and what does it have to do with density? I am having a hard time grasping this concept. Thanks

 

[jz123]

mercury has a higher density than water

higher density means more mass in a fixed volume (d=m/V) (you can assume it this way).

so clearly, more mass leads to a higher gravitational force due to gravity. hence, mercury which has higher density (more mass, higher gravitional force ) will have a lower level.

my explanation is confusing maybe, let me know if you want me to clarify

 

[Alpha Centauri]

mercury has a higher density than water

higher density means more mass in a fixed volume (d=m/V) (you can assume it this way).

so clearly, more mass leads to a higher gravitational force due to gravity. hence, mercury which has higher density (more mass, higher gravitional force ) will have a lower level.

my explanation is confusing maybe, let me know if you want me to clarify

Oh ok cool. So basically since mercury is more dense compared to the same volume as water, it weighs more and is pulled down to a greater degree than the lighter water? This way of viewing it makes perfect sense to me know. Thanks! It didn't help that the question told me that water is more dense than mercury too...

 

[jz123]

Oh ok cool. So basically since mercury is more dense compared to the same volume as water, it weighs more and is pulled down to a greater degree than the lighter water? This way of viewing it makes perfect sense to me know. Thanks! It didn't help that the question told me that water is more dense than mercury too...

i am glad that it helped