Question

A precisely machined 6 ft diameter granite sphere rests on a 4 ft diameter cylindrical pedestal as shown in the figure. When the pump is turned on, the water pressure within the pedestal reaches 8 psi, causing the sphere to rise off the pedestal and creating a 0.005-inch gap through which the water flows. The sphere can then be rotated about any axis with minimal friction. Estimate the pump flow rate Qo required to accomplish this. Assume the flow in the gap between the sphere and the pedestal is essentially viscous flow between fixed, parallel plates. (b) Describe what would happen if the pump flow rate were increased to 2Qo?

Answer 1

The question involves calculating the flow rate needed to lift a spherical object using water pressure and understanding the effects of doubling this flow rate.

Step-by-step explanation:

The question concerns fluid dynamics, specifically the flow rate required to lift a spherical granite object using water pressure and the effect of viscous flow between two surfaces on this system.

To accomplish lifting the sphere, a certain flow rate (Qo) is needed, which can be estimated using principles of fluid mechanics and viscous flow.

The question then explores the scenario where the pump flow rate is doubled to 2Qo and asks what the implications of this change would be likely involving an examination of the forces required to maintain the lift and the potential for turbulent flow.

The question involves calculating the flow rate needed to lift a spherical object using water pressure and understanding the effects of doubling this flow rate.