PURPOSE: To show the Continuity Equation. That is, for uniform fluid flow where the mass of the fluid does not change, the velocity of the fluid flow will increase proportional to a decrease in the area of the fluid flow.
DESCRIPTION: A mass of water flowing uniformly from a faucet shows neckdown, as seen in the photo. It is wide and thick at the top, and it tapers to become narrow and thin at the bottom. As the water falls from the faucet it accelerates, and as the velocity of the fluid flow increases the area of the fluid flow decreases. Time the period to fill a graduated, 1000 ml beaker to measure the rate of the volume flow.
EQUIPMENT: as photographed. Use a backdrop of yellow paper, a light and a camera. A beaker can be used.
SETUP TIME: None.
JZ 12/4/99