Forces in Fluids: Buoyancy and Density

Upon viewing the Forces in Fluids video series, students will be able to do the following: Define fluids as substances that can easily flow and readily change shape. Explain that fluids flow because particles can easily move past each other. Understand that particles in fluids exert pressure equally in all directions. Describe how fluids move from areas of higher pressure to areas of lower pressure. Explain that the atmosphere around us creates pressure, referred to as air pressure. Understand Pascal's principle, which states that when a force is applied to a confined fluid, an increase in pressure is transmitted equally to all parts of the fluid. Describe how hydraulic devices utilize Pascal's principle to transmit pressure from one point to another. Provide an example of a buoyant force at work. Define the term "density." State the formula for computing density: Density=Mass/Volume. Cite an example of an object that is less dense than water, causing it to float, and an object that is denser than water, causing it to sink. Understand Bernoulli's principle, which states, that a moving stream of fluid has a lower pressure than the pressure in the surrounding fluid.