Pascals Principle

Knowledge outcomes:
--What is Pascal's Principle? (Pressure exerted on a confined fluid is transmitted undiminished to all parts
of the fluid)
--Students really come to understand what this principle means and are able to apply it.
--Understanding and working with the math and physics of a hydraulic jack-- how you can have a smaller
input force and a greater output force.
1. Watch:
a. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AtQ1oh09Uyo
b. 0:55 - 1:25
2. Introduce challenge & plan
Using plastic bags, plastic tubing, and duct tape, create a setup that will lift as many books as possible
using just two books as counterweights pressing down.
Before you begin:
1. Find a partner
2. Come up with a plan & draw it
3. Lift-a-book Challenge!
Using plastic bags, plastic tubing, and duct tape, create a system that will lift as many books as
possible using just two books as counterweights pressing down.
Draw the system you designed.
Be sure to include all dimensions and the mass of the books you use.
4. Discussion
- What is happening to the fluid pressure inside your system?
- Is the fluid pressure the same everywhere or higher in some places and lower in others?
- Pascals Principle: Pressure exerted on a confined fluid is transmitted undiminished to
all parts of the fluid.
5. Prove pressure formula
Which is the correct formula for pressure?
1.
P=F+A
2.
P = FA
3.
P= F/A
4.
P = A/F
- Knowing Pascals principle, use your hydraulic book lifts to prove you have chosen the
correct formula for pressure. Show me evidence!
6. Exit Ticket:
1. What challenges did you encounter while designing/building/testing your system?
2. How do you think you could improve your system if you did this again?