Definition check — vacuum pressure vs. atmospheric pressure When pressure intensity at a point is lower than local atmospheric pressure, the difference (p_atm − p_local) is called vacuum pressure. Do you agree?
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AAgree
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BDisagree
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CAgree only for gases
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DAgree only under cavitation
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EDisagree unless temperature is constant
Answer
Correct Answer: Agree
Explanation
Introduction / Context:Pressure terminology in hydraulics distinguishes among absolute pressure, gauge pressure, and vacuum pressure. Understanding these definitions is essential for instrumentation, cavitation analysis, and pump selection.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- Local atmospheric pressure head h_atm is known.
- Measured local absolute pressure head h_abs may be above or below h_atm.
- We adopt standard sign conventions used in hydraulics.
Concept / Approach:Gauge pressure p_gauge = p_abs − p_atm. When p_abs < p_atm, p_gauge is negative. The magnitude of this negative gauge pressure is termed vacuum pressure: p_vacuum = p_atm − p_abs. In head terms: h_vacuum = h_atm − h_abs.
Step-by-Step Solution:
State definition: Vacuum pressure is the shortfall of local absolute pressure below atmospheric pressure.Express: p_vacuum = p_atm − p_abs (or h_vacuum = h_atm − h_abs).Thus, whenever the local pressure intensity is less than atmosphere, the difference is vacuum pressure.Verification / Alternative check:Manometers with one leg open to atmosphere read vacuum as an upward deflection on the vacuum side; the magnitude equals p_atm − p_abs. This matches the definition above.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
- Disagree / qualifiers: Vacuum pressure is not limited to gases or cavitation; any fluid at p_abs < p_atm qualifies.
Common Pitfalls:Confusing absolute and gauge scales; forgetting that absolute pressure cannot be negative (lower bound is zero absolute).
Final Answer:Agree