Problem 1.

A person who has learned fluid mechanics can do useful things such
as tasks a and b on the list that follows. Add 5 more tasks to this
list.

a. Modify my car to reduce the drag force (increase fuel economy).

b. Design a water supply system for my city.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.

Feedback

Feedback. Some examples of possible tasks are:

a. Calculate the wind load on my backpacking tent
b. Design a system to automatically water my plants
c. Design a new type of boat for fun in whitewater
d. Figure out how to make hydroelectric power from a stream
near my house
e. Size a pump and water line for a cabin I might build

1
Problem 1.2

Complete each sentence.

a. Engineering involves the knowledge that equips you to
.
b. Mechanics involves the knowledge that equips you to
.
c. Fluid Mechanics involves the knowledge that equips you to
.

Feedback

Feedback. An example of a possible answer follows.

a. Engineering: solve problems that involve technology. This can
involve all parts of the technology cycle: invention, design,
research, application, sales, and so forth.
b. Mechanics: solve engineering problems that involve loads, mo-
tion, deformation, and so forth.
c. Fluid Mechanics: solve mechanics problems when a fluid is
involved.

2
Problem 1.3

Address the following questions:

a. What is engineering?
b. What is mechanics?
c. What is fluid mechanics?
d. How are these topics related?

Feedback

The relationships between engineering, mechanics and fluid mechan-

ics can be shown with a Venn diagram:

Everday world of people, communities, ...

Engineering
Mechanics
Fluid Mechanics

In the everyday world, there are professionals called engineers who

invent, design, and apply technologies such as airplanes, hydroelec-
tric power plants, cars, and computers. Engineers solve problems by
applying knowledge from chemistry, circuits, math, thermodynam-
ics, mechanics and so on.

Mechanics is the body of knowledge that describes loads, motion,

deformations, and material failure.

One subfield of mechanics is fluid mechanics which deals with me-

chanics problems when the material is a gas or a liquid.

Summary: Fluid mechanics is a subset of mechanics. Mechanics—

which is knowledge used by engineers for solving problems that in-
volves loads, motion, deformation, failure, energy, and so on—is a
subset of engineering. Engineer itself is used to create, design, im-
prove, and apply technology that benefits people, communities, gov-
ernments, and so forth.

3
Problem 1.4

Answer the following questions:

a. What is critical thinking (CT) ?
b. Create a list that describes what you can do if you are skilled
at problem solving.
c. According to the standard structure of CT (SSCT), what are
the steps for thinking critically?

Feedback

Feedback. One way to answer the questions is like this:

a. Critical thinking is a method for making good decisions.
b. If you are a skilled critical thinker, then you can
• have a game plan for decision making
• have confidence in your decisions
• consistently make good decisions
• consistently reject bad decisions
• communicate your decisions effectively
• analyze a claim made by another person and judge the
quality of the claim on a scale that ranges from lousy to
excellent
• decide if a claim is true or not true
• recognize flawed arguments (fallacies)
c. According to the SSCT, the three steps of CT are:
i State the issue
ii State the claim
iii List premises (aka, facts), definitions, subclaims, and so
on that support the claim

4
Problem 1.5

Compare and contrast liquids and gases by filling out the partially
completed template that follows.

First concept Second concept

gas liquid

How are the two concepts alike?

1. both phases are compressible

2.
3.
4.

How do the two concepts differ?

with respect to
smaller; ∼ 1d molecular spacing larger; ∼ 10d
with respect to

with respect to

with respect to

with respect to

Feedback

5
First concept Second concept
gas liquid

How are the two concepts alike?

1. both phases are compressible

2. both comprised of atoms or molecules
3. both flow due to shear stress
4. common property types: e.g., ρ, γ, and µ

How do the two concepts differ?

with respect to
smaller; ∼ 1d molecular spacing larger; ∼ 10d
with respect to
easily compressible compressibility not very compressible
with respect to
expands to fill container takes shape of
with respect to
if T ↑, then µ ↑ µ versus T if T ↑, then µ ↓
with respect to
low density magnitude high

6
1.6: PROBLEM DEFINITION
Situation:
(T/F) A fluid is defined as a material that continuously deforms
under the action of a normal stress.

Issue:
Is the following statement best characterized as true or as false?
A fluid is defined as a material that continuously deforms under the
action of a normal stress.

REASONING:
1. By definition, a fluid is a material that deforms continuously
under the action of a “shear stress.”
2. The statement states “normal stress.”
3. Thus, the given statement is false.
4. Another reason why the given statement is false is that it is easy to
find examples in which the given statement is not true. For example,
fluid particles in a lake experience normal stresses and there is no
flow (i.e. deformation).

CONCLUSION: The best answer is false

NOTE TO INSTRUCTOR:
See Appendix A of this Chapter 1 Solution Manual document for
active learning in-class activities that may be used as a follow-on to
this assignment.
In particular, the Clicker or ”Vote” Classroom Problem method
would be appropriate.

7
1.7: PROBLEM DEFINITION
Situation:
A fluid particle
a. is defined as one molecule
b. is a small chunk of fluid
c. is so small that the continuum assumption does not apply

SOLUTION
The correct answer is b.

8
1.8: PROBLEM DEFINITION
Situation:
The continuum assumption (select all that apply)
a. applies in a vacuum such as in outer space
b. assumes that fluids are infinitely divisible into smaller and smaller
parts
c. is an invalid assumption when the length scale of the problem or
design is similar to the spacing of the molecules
d. means that density can idealized as a continuous function of
position
e. only applies to gases

SOLUTION
The correct answers are b, c, and d.

9
Problem 1.9

Situation: Water is flowing in a metal pipe. The pipe OD (outside

diameter) is 61 cm. The pipe length is 120 m. The pipe wall thick-
ness is 0.9 cm. The water density is 1.0 kg/L. The empty weight of
the metal pipe is 2500 N/m.

In kN, what is the total weight (pipe plus water)?

(a) 1100 (b) 530 (c) 950 (d) 620 (e) 740

Feedback

Claim: The best choice is (d).

Reasoning:

The steps are

1. Add the weight of the steel and the water
2. Apply γ = (weight/volume); then, find the inside volume of
the pipe using (volume) = (area)(length)
3. Relate the weight of the pipe to its weight/length.
4. Do the calculations

10
Problem 1.10

The formula in the frame was found on the Internet. Prove that this
formula is either valid or invalid. The density of steel is ≈ 7.8 g/cm3 .

Formula: Weight of a steel pipe

The weight per foot of steel pipe is given by

WT/FT = (∗OD - ∗WT) x ∗WT x 10.69

where
• WT/FT is the weight per foot in units of lbf/ft
• ∗OD is the outside diameter of the pipe in inches
• ∗WT is the wall thickness in inches

This formula is from http://jdfields.com/pipe-weight-per-

foot-calculator/.

Feedback

Claim: The formula is valid.

Feedback. I derived a formula and then compared my result to the

given formula as follows:

11
The steps are:
1. Apply the weight equation
2. Find the volume of the steel pipe
3. Combine Eqs. (1) and (2)
4. Find D1 in terms of D2 and t
5. Combine Eqs (3) and (4)
6. Convert density to consistent units
7. Substitute the appropriate units

12
Problem 1.11

What is the weight in pounds-force of an object with a mass of

19 lbm on a planet where g = 12 ft/s2 ?

(a) 10.2 (b) 19.0 (c) 7.1 (d) 37.0 (e) 3.2

Feedback

Claim: The best choice is (c)

Reasoning:

The steps are:

1. Apply the weight equation
2. Carry and cancel units
3. Apply the definition of the pound force

(1.0 lbf) ≡ (1.0 lbm)(32.2 ft/s2 )

13
Problem 1.12

Planet X has a diameter that is 3 times the diameter of Earth and

a mass that is 30 times the mass of the Earth. In SI units, what is
the gravitational acceleration on planet X?

(a) 32.7 (b) 98.1 (c) 9.81 (d) 0.98 (e) 15.9

Feedback

Claim: The best choice is (a).

Reasoning:

The steps are:

1. From NLUG (Newton’s law of universal gravitation), derive
the formula for g
2. Apply the formula for g to planet X
3. Apply the formula for g to planet earth
4. Combine Eqs. (2) and (3)
5. Solve for g on planet X

14
1.13: PROBLEM DEFINITION

Note: Student answers will vary. The CT process format (Is-

sue/Reasoning/Conclusion) should be used.

An example answer is provided here.

Issue:
A lift force on an airfoil is caused by air pressure on the bottom of
the wing relative to the top of the wing. Therefore, lift force is a
pressure force. Use the CT process (see §1.1) to answer whether lift
acting on an airfoil is a surface force, or a body force.

Reasoning:
Pressure forces and lift forces have molecules of fluid touching the
surface of the wing, and touching is the distinguishing feature of a
surface force. Therefore, lift is a surface force, not a body force.
A body force is one caused by a field, such as a magnetic, gravi-
tational, or electrical field. Although gravity influences the pressure
distribution in the atmosphere where the plane is flying, the lift (sur-
face) force acts only because the air is pressed against (touching) the
airfoil surface.

Conclusion:
A lift force is a surface force.

15
1.14: PROBLEM DEFINITION
Situation:
Fill in the blanks. Show your work, using conversion factors found
in Table F.1 (EFM12e).

PLAN
Do these unit conversions between different mass units.
Show your work - e.g. canceling and carrying units, using conversion
factors found in Table F.1 (EFM12e).
a)

SOLUTION 900 g is slug

   
900 g 1 kg 1 slug
900 g =
1 1000 g 14.59 kg

900 g = 0.0617 slug

b)

SOLUTION 27 lbm is kg
  
27 lbm 1 kg
27 lbm =
1 2.205 lbm

27 lbm = 12.2 kg
c)

SOLUTION 100 kg is slugs

  
100 kg 1 slug
100 kg =
1 14.59 kg

100 kg = 6.85 slug

d)

SOLUTION 14 lbm is g
  
14 lbm 453.6 g
14 lbm =
1 1 lbm

14 lbm = 6350 g
e)

16
SOLUTION 5 slug is lbm
  
5 slug 32.17 lbm
5 slug =
1 1 slug

5 slug = 160.8 lbm

17
1.15: PROBLEM DEFINITION

Situation:
What is the approximate mass in units of slugs for
a. A 2-liter bottle of water?
b. A typical adult male?
c. A typical automobile?
a)

PLAN
Mass in slugs for: 2-L bottle of water

SOLUTION

1 m3
    
2L 1000 kg 1 slug
= 0.137 slug
m3 1000L 14.59 kg
b)

PLAN
Answers will vary, but for 180-lb male:

SOLUTION
On earth 1 lbf weighs 1 lbm
To convert to slugs
  
180 lb 1 slug
= 5.60 slug
32.17 lb
c)

PLAN
Answers will vary, but for 3000-lb automobile:

SOLUTION
On earth 1 lbf weighs 1 lbm
To convert to slugs
  
3000 lb 1 slug
= 93.3 slug
32.17 lb

18
1.16: PROBLEM DEFINITION
Answer the following questions related to mass and weight. Show
your work, and cancel and carry units.

PLAN
Use F = ma, and consider weight and mass units.
In particular, be aware of consistent units and their definitions, such
as:

1.0 N ≡ 1.0 kg ×1.0 m/ s2 and 1.0 lbf ≡ 1.0 slug ×1.0 ft/ s2
a)

SOLUTION What is the weight (in N) of a 100-kg body?

F = m × a on earth
W = (100 kg) 9.81 m/ s2

W = 981 N
b)

SOLUTION What is the mass (in lbm) of 20 lbf of water?

m = F/a
m = {force} × {1/acceleration on earth} × {identity}
s2 1 slug × 1 ft/ s2
   
20 lbf
m =
1 32.2 ft 1 lbf
m = 0.621 slug; next convert to lbm
  
0.621 slug 32.2 lbm
m =
1 1 slug

m = 20 lbm
c)

SOLUTION What is the mass (in slugs) of 20 lbf of water?

m = F/a
m = {force} × {1/acceleration on earth} × {identity}
s2 1 slug × 1 ft/ s2
   
20 lbf
m =
1 32.2 ft 1 lbf

19
 m = 0.621 slug;
d)

SOLUTION How many N are needed to accelerate 2 kg at 1 m/s2 ?

F = m×a
F = (2 kg) 1 m/ s2

F = 2N
e)

SOLUTION How many lbf are needed to accelerate 2 lbm at 1 ft/

s2 ?

m = 2 lbm convert to slugs for consistent units

  
2 lbm 1 slug
2 lbm =
1 32.17 lbm
2 lbm = 0.06217 slug Now, use F = m × a with the consistent units
F = m×a
F = 0.06217 slug × 1 m/ s2

F = 0.0622 lbf
f)

SOLUTION How many lbf are needed to accelerate 2 slugs at 1

ft/ s2 ?

Here, units are already consistent

F = m×a
F = 2 slug × 1 m/ s2

F = 2 lbf

20
Problem 1.17

A volume V3 can be calculated using the formula V3 = V2 − V1 . The

parameters are V2 = 2.7 dL and V1 = 9.4 cL, where dL and cL are
the abbreviations for deciliters and centiliters respectively.

The volume V3 in units of mL (milliliters) is:

(a) 192 (b) 41 (c) 264 (d) 176 (e) 9

Feedback

Claim: The best choice is (d)

Reasoning:
1. A deciliter is equal to one tenth of a liter
2. A centiliter is equal to one hundredth of a liter
3. A milliliter is equal to one thousandth of a liter
4. Thus

V3 = (2.7 × 10−1 L) − (9.4 × 10−2 L)

= 0.176 L = 176 mL

21
1.18: PROBLEM DEFINITION
Situation: The sketch shows fluid flowing over a flat surface.
Find: Show how to find the value of the distance y where the deriva-
tive dV /dy is maximum.

REASONING

CONCLUSION(S)

The derivative is maximum where y = 0 cm

22
1.19: PROBLEM DEFINITION
Situation: An engineer measured the speed of a flowing fluid as a
function of the distance y from a wall; the data are shown in the
table.
Find: Show how to calculate the maximum value of dV/dy for this
data set. Express your answer in SI units.

REASONING

CONCLUSION(S)

The maximum value of dV/dy is 1000 s−1

23
1.20: PROBLEM DEFINITION
Situation: The plot shows data taken to measure the rate of water
flowing into a tank as a function of time.

Find: Show how to calculate the total amount of water (in kg, ac-
curate to 1 or 2 significant figures) that flowed into the tank during
the 100s interval shown.

REASONING

CONCLUSION(S)

m = 700 kg (accurate to about 2 SFs where SFs means significant figures)

24
1.21: PROBLEM DEFINITION

Find:
How are density and specific weight related?

PLAN
Consider their definitions (conceptual and mathematical)

SOLUTION
Density is a [mass]/[unit volume], and specific weight is a [weight]/[unit
volume]. Therefore, they are related by the equation γ = ρg , and
density differs from specific weight by the factor g, the acceleration
of gravity.

25
1.22: PROBLEM DEFINITION
Situation:
If a gas has γ = 14 N/m3 what is its density?
State your answers in SI units and in traditional units.

SOLUTION
Density and specific seight are related according to

ρ
γ =
g
γ
So ρ =
g
N
For γ = 14 3
 m 
1 s2

14 N
In SI ρ =
m3 9.81 m
ρ = 1.43 mkg3
Converting to traditional units
1 m3
   
1.427 kg 1 slug
ρ =
m3 (3.2813 ) ft3 14.59 kg
ρ = 2.78 × 10−3 slug
ft3

26
Problem 1.23

What is the specific weight of nitrogen in units of newtons per cubic

meter at a temperature of −10 ◦C and a pressure of 0.6 bar gage?

(a) 20 (b) 31 (c) 36 (d) 24 (e) 39

Feedback

The best answer is (a). The reasoning follows.

The steps are:

1. Apply the definition of specific weight
2. Apply the IGL
3. Calculate density
4. Calculate specific weight

27
Problem 1.24

From memory, give the density of water at room conditions.

a. kg/L
b. g/L
c. g/mL
d. kg/(1000 L)
e. kg/m3
f. slug/ft3
g. lbm/ft3
h. lbm/(US gallon)
i. lbm/(US quart)

Feedback

Feedback. It is useful to know typical density values of liquid water.

These values can be rounded. For example, it is good enough to
remember that the density of water is about 8 lbm/gallon.

Density of liquid water is ρ =

a. 1.0 kg/L
b. 1000 g/L
c. 1.0 g/mL = 1.0 g/cm3
d. 1000 kg/(1000 L)
e. 1000 kg/m3
f. 1.94 slug/ft3
g. 62.4 lbm/ft3
h. ≈ 8 lbm/(US gallon)
i. ≈ 2 lbm/(US quart)

28
Problem 1.25

From memory, give the specific weight of water at room conditions.

a. N/m3
b. N/L
c. kN/m3
d. lbf/ft3
e. lbf/(US gallon)
f. lbf/(US quart)

Feedback

Feedback. It is useful to know typical values of γ for water. Some

tips:
1. γ = ρg. Thus, (1.0 kg/L)(9.81 m/s2 ) ≈ 9.8 N/L
2. Since a mass of 8.0 lbm on earth will have a weight of 8.0 lbf,
ρ ≈ 8 lbm/(US gallon) and γ ≈ 8 lbf/(US gallon)
3. Values can be rounded. For example, it is good enough to
remember that γ ≈ 8 lbf/gallon

Specific weight of liquid water is γ =

a. 9810 N/m3
b. 9.81 N/L
c. 9.81 kN/m3
d. 62.4 lbf/ft3
e. ≈ 8 lbf/(US gallon)
f. ≈ 2 lbf/(US quart)

29
1.26: PROBLEM DEFINITION
Situation:
Calculate the number of molecules in:
a) One cubic cm of water at room conditions
b) One cubic cm of air at room conditions

a)

PLAN
1. The density of water at room conditions is known (Table A.5,
EFM12e), and the volume is given, so:

m = ρV
2. From the Internet, water has a molar mass of 18 g/mol, use this
to determine the number of moles in this sample.
3. Avogadro’s number says that there are 6 × 1023 molecules/mol

SOLUTION
1.
m = ρwater V
Assume conditions are atmospheric with T = 20◦ C and ρ = 998 mkg3

1 m3
  
998 kg
1 cm3


mwater =
m3 1003 cm3
mwater = 0.001 kg

2. To determine the number of moles:

  
1 mol 1000 g
number of moles = (0.0010 kg)
18 g 1 kg
number of moles = 0.055 mol

3. Using Avogadro’s number

6 × 1023 molecules
 
(0.055 mol)
mol
number of molecules = 3.3×1022 molecules

b)

PLAN

30
1. The density of air at room conditions is known (Table A.3,
EFM12e), and the volume is given, so:

m = ρV
2. From the Internet, dry air has a molar mass of 28.97 g/mol, use
this to determine the number of moles in this sample.
3. Avogadro’s number says that there are 6 × 1023 molecules/mol

SOLUTION
1.
m = ρair V
Assume conditions are atmospheric with T = 20◦ C and ρ = 1.20 mkg3

1 m3
  
1.20 kg
1 cm3


mair = 3 3 3
m 100 cm
−6
mair = 1.2 × 10 kg

2. To determine the number of moles:

  
−6

1 mol 1000 g
number of moles = 1.2 × 10 kg
28.97 g 1 kg
number of moles = 4.14 × 10−5 mol

3. Using Avogadro’s number

6 × 1023 molecules
 
−5


4.14 × 10 mol
mol

number of molecules = 2.5 × 1019 molecules

REVIEW
There are more moles in one cm3 of water than one cm3 of dry air.
This makes sense, because the molecules in a liquid are held together
by weak inter-molecular bonding, and in gases they are not; see
Table 1.1 in Section 1.2 (EFM12e).

31
1.27: PROBLEM DEFINITION
Situation:
Start with the mole form of the Ideal Gas Law, and show the steps
to prove that the mass form is correct.

SOLUTION
The molar form is:

pV = nRu T
Where n = number of moles of gas, and the Universal Gas Constant
= Ru = 8.314 J/ mol · K.
Specific gas constants are given by

Ru
Rspecific = R =
molar mass of a gas
  
8.314 J X moles
=
mol · K g
J
= 8.314 X
g· K
Indeed, we see that the units for gas constants, R, in table A.2
(EFM12e), are

J
g· K

So

m
pV = (Rspecific ) (m) (T ) and ρ =
V
p = ρRT

Thus the mass form is correct.

32
1.28: PROBLEM DEFINITION
Situation:
Start with the universal gas constant and show that RN2 = 297 kg·J K .

SOLUTION
Start with universal gas constant:
8.314 J
Ru =
mol · K
The molar mass of nitrogen, N2 , is 28.02 g/mol.
   
Ru 8.314 J 1 mol 1000 g
RN2 = =
molar mass mol · K 28.02 g 1 kg
= 297 kg·J K

33
1.29: PROBLEM DEFINITION
Situation:
Properties of air.
p = 730 kPa, T = 28 ◦ C.
Find:
Specific weight (N/m3 ).
Density (kg/m3 ).
Properties:
J
From Table A.2 (EFM12e), R = 287 kg· K
.

PLAN
First, apply the ideal gas law to find density. Then, calculate specific
weight using γ = ρg.

SOLUTION
1. Ideal gas law
P
ρair =
RT
730, 000 Pa
=
(287 J/ kg K) (28 + 273) K
ρair = 8.45 kg/m3

2. Specific weight

γ air = ρair × g
= 8.45 kg/ m3 × 9.81 m/ s2
γ air = 82.9 N/ m3

REVIEW
Always use absolute pressure and absolute temperature when work-
ing with the ideal gas law.

34
Problem 1.30

The volume in liters of 1.0 mol of air at STP, which is 0 ◦C and 1 bar
absolute, is

(a) 8 (b) 69 (c) 43 (d) 23 (e) 38

Feedback

Claim: The best choice is (d)

Reasoning:

35
Problem 1.31

If 3.7 grams of a gas contains 3.7 × 1022 molecules, what is the molar
mass of this gas in units of g/mol?

(a) 37 (b) 74 (c) 60 (d) 44 (e) 16

Feedback

Claim: The best choice is (d)

Reasoning:

The steps are:

1. Apply the definition of molar mass
2. Apply the definition of the mole
3. Calculate the number of moles
4. Calculate the molar mass

36
Problem 1.32

How many grams of carbon dioxide are contained in a 47 cm diameter

sphere when the gage pressure is 1.5 bar and the temperature is
60 ◦C?

(a) 380 (b) 120 (c) 24 (d) 220 (e) 91

Feedback

Claim: The best answer is (d)

Reasoning:

37
Problem 1.33

The number of mol in 3/8 lbm · mol is

(a) 170 (b) 0.38 (c) 22.4 (d) 2.43 (e) 5.98

Feedback

Claim: The best answer is (a).

Reasoning:

The steps are:

1. Apply the definition of the lbm · mol
2. Apply Eq. (1) to build a conversion ratio
3. Do the unit conversion

38
Problem 1.34

A gas will be held in a spherical tank. The gas can be modeled as an

ideal gas. The amount of gas is 780 g. The molar mass is 19 g/mol.
The pressure is 4 atm gage. The temperature is 150 ◦ F.

In mm, the diameter of the tank is:

(a) 210 (b) 360 (c) 650 (d) 760 (e) 910

Feedback

Claim: The best choice is (d)

Reasoning:

The steps are:

1. Sketch a situation diagram
2. Covert temperature and pressure to absolute units.
Convert all units to consistent units.
Calculate the specific gas constant.
3. Apply the formula for sphere volume
4. Apply the mass form of the IGL
5. Do the calcs

39
Problem 1.35

The temperature of a gas is 38 ◦ F above room temperature. English

units are being used. What magnitude of temperature should be
used in the IGL (ideal gas law)?

(a) 38 (b) 108 (c) 198 (d) 568 (e) 643

Feedback

Claim: The best answer is (d)

Reasoning:

Assume that room temperature is 70 ◦ F. Then, take the following

steps.
1. Convert differential temperature to Fahrenheit.
2. Convert to absolute temperature which is the Rankine scale
when English units are being used.

40
Problem 1.36

The pressure of a gas is 0.4 bar above local atmospheric pressure.

The SI unit system is being used. What magnitude of pressure
should be used in the IGL (ideal gas law)?

(a) 0.4 (b) 1.4 (c) 20.6 (d) 40 000 (e) 141 000

Feedback

Claim: The best answer is (e)

Reasoning:
1. Absolute pressure, not gage, is used in the IGL
2. The SI unit of pressure is pascal
3. Thus,

41
1.37: PROBLEM DEFINITION
Situation:
Spherical tank of CO2 , does p2 = 3p1 ?
Case 1:
p = 12 atm
T = 30◦ C
Volume is constant inside the tank
Case 2:
p=?
T = 90◦ C
Volume for case 2 is equivalent to that in case 1

PLAN
1. Volume inside the tank is constant, as is the mass.
Mass is related to volume by density.
2. Use the Ideal Gas Law to find P2

SOLUTION
1. Mass in terms of density

m = ρV
m
For both case 1 and 2, ρ1 = = ρ2 , because mass is contained by the tank.
V
2. Ideal Gas Law for constant volume

p
ρ =
RT
p1 p2
ρ1,2 = =
RT1 RT2
p1 p2
=
T1 T2
The Ideal Gas Law applies ONLY if the temperature is absolute,
which for this system means Kelvin. In the problem statement, the
temperatures were given in Celsius. We need to convert the given
temperatures to Kelvin in order to relate them to the pressures. We
see therefore that the ratio of temperatures in K is not 1:3. Rather,
30◦ C = 303.15 K, and 90◦ C = 363.15 K.
T2 363.15 K p2
Therefore, T1
= 303.15 K
= p1
= 1.2

⇒ No, p2 does not equal 3p1 . Instead, p2 = 1.2 p1

REVIEW

42
When working with the IGL, you must alwasy use units for abolute
temperature, which means convert T to Rankine (traditional) or
Kelvin (SI).

43
1.38: PROBLEM DEFINITION
Situation:
An engineer needs to know the local density for an experiment
with a glider.
z = 2500 ft.
Local temperature = 74.3 ◦ F = 296.7 K.
Local pressure = 27.3 in.-Hg = 92.45 kPa.
Find:
Calculate density of air using local conditions.
Compare calculated density with the value from Table A.2, and
make a recommendation.
Properties:
J N· m
From Table A.2 (EFM12e), Rair = 287 kg· K
= 287 kg· K
, ρ =
1.22 kg/ m3 .

PLAN
Calculate density by applying the ideal gas law for local conditions.

SOLUTION
Ideal gas law
p
ρ =
RT
92, 450 N/ m2
=  
N· m
287 kg· K
(296.7 K)
= 1.086 kg/m3

ρ = 1.09 kg/m3 (local conditions)

Table value. From Table A.2
ρ = 1.22 kg/m3 (table value)

The density difference (local conditions versus table value) is

about 12%. Most of this difference is due to the effect of
elevation on atmospheric pressure.
Recommendation–use the local value of density because the effects of elevation are significant .

REVIEW

Note: Use absolute pressure when working with the ideal gas
law.

44
1.39: PROBLEM DEFINITION
Situation:
Carbon dioxide.
Find:
Density and specific weight of CO2 .
Properties:
From Table A.2 (EFM12e), RCO2 = 189 J/kg·K.
p = 114 kPa, T = 90 ◦ C.

PLAN
1. First, apply the ideal gas law to find density.
2. Then, calculate specific weight using γ = ρg.

SOLUTION
1. Ideal gas law
P
ρCO2 =
RT
114, 000 kPa
=
(189 J/ kg K) (90 + 273) K
ρCO2 = 1.66 kg/m3

2. Specific weight
γ = ρg
Thus

γ CO2 = ρCO2 × g
= 1.66 kg/ m3 × 9.81 m/ s2
γ CO2 = 16.3 N/m3

REVIEW
Always use absolute pressure when working with the ideal gas law.

45
1.40: PROBLEM DEFINITION
Situation:
10 moles of methane gas; molecular weight of methane is 16 g/-
mole.
psi lbf lbf
p = 2 bar abs; 2 bar = 2 × 14.50 bar = 29.0 in 2 abs = 4176 2 abs
ft
◦ ◦
T = 70 F = 529.7 R
Find:
Diameter of sphere (ft)
Properties:
ft· lbf
Rmethane = 3098 slug· ◦R

PLAN
1. Derive an equation for diameter.
2. Relate moles to mass.
3. Find V using the mass form of the IGL.
4. Solve for D as per step 1.
SOLUTION
1. Diameter formula
4 3 1
V sphere =πr = πD3
3 r6
3 6V
=⇒ D =
π
2. Methane, CH4 , has a molar mass of 16 g
mol
. Thus, 10 moles of
methane has a mass of 160 g, or 0.160 kg = 0.011 slug.

3. Ideal Gas Law

mRT
V =
p
ft· lbf ◦
0.011 slug × 3098 slug· ◦ R × 529.7 R
V =
4176 lbf
ft2
V = 4.31 ft3
4. Solve for V as per step 1.
r
3 6V
D=
π

D = 2.0 ft

REVIEW
Always convert temperature to Rankine (traditional) or Kelvin (SI)
when working with Ideal Gas Law.

46
1.41: PROBLEM DEFINITION
Natural gas is stored in a spherical tank.
Find:
Ratio of final mass to initial mass in the tank.
Properties:
patm = 100 kPa, p1 = 108 kPa-gage.
p2 = 204 kPa-gage, T1 = T2 = 12 ◦ C.

PLAN
Use the ideal gas law to develop a formula for the ratio of final mass
to initial mass.

SOLUTION
1. Mass in terms of density

M = ρV (1)

2. Ideal gas law

p
ρ= (2)
RT
3. Combine Eqs. (1) and (2)

M = ρV
= (p/RT )V

4. Volume and gas temperature are constant, so the cancel when

making a ratio comparing case 1 to case 2.
M2 p2
=
M1 p1
and

M2 204 kPa
=
M1 108 kPa
M2
M1
= 1.46

47
1.42: PROBLEM DEFINITION
Situation:
Oxygen fills a tank.
V tank = 18 ft3 , Wtank = 150 lbf.
p = 184 psia = 26, 496 psf,
T = 95 ◦ F = (460 + 95)◦ R = 555◦ R
Find:
Weight (tank plus oxygen).
Properties:
From Table A.2 (EFM12e), RO2 = 1555 ft·lbf/(slug ·o R) .

PLAN
1. Apply the ideal gas law to find density of oxygen.
2. Find the weight of the oxygen using specific weight (γ) and add
to Wtank .

SOLUTION
1. Ideal gas law
p
ρ =
RT
26, 496 psf
=
(1555 ft lbf/ slugo R) (555o R)
ρ = 0.0307 slugs/ft3

2. Specific weight

γ = ρg
slug ft
= 0.0307 3 × 32.2 2
ft s
3
γ = 0.9885 lbf/ft

3. Weight of filled tank

Woxygen = γV
Woxygen = 0.9885 lbf/ft3 × 18 ft3
= 17.79 lbf
Wtotal = Woxygen + Wtank
= 17.79 lbf + 150 lbf
Wtotal = 168 lbf

48
1.43: PROBLEM DEFINITION
Situation:
Oxygen is released from a tank through a valve.
V = 12 m3 .
Find:
Mass of oxygen that has been released.
Properties:
RO2 = 260 kg·J K .
p1 = 850 kPa = 850, 000 Pa abs; T1 = 17 ◦ C = 290 K
p2 = 650 kPa = 650, 000 Pa abs; T2 = 17 ◦ C = 290 K

PLAN
1. Use ideal gas law, expressed in terms of density and the gas-
specific (not universal) gas constant.
2. Find the density for the case before the gas is released; and then
mass from density, given the tank volume.
3. Find the density for the case after the gas is released, and the
corresponding mass.
4. Calculate the mass difference, which is the mass released.

SOLUTION
1. Ideal gas law
p
ρ=
RT
2. Density and mass for case 1
850, 000 mN2
ρ1 = N· m
(260 kg· K
)(290 K)
kg
ρ1 = 11.27
m3

m1 = ρ 1 V
kg
= 11.27 × 12 m3
m3
m1 = 135.3 kg

3. Density and mass for case 2

650, 000 mN2
ρ2 = N· m
(260 kg· K
)(290 K)
kg
ρ2 = 8.621
m3
49
 m2 = ρ 1 V
kg
= 8.621 × 12 m3
m3
m2 = 103.4 kg

4. Mass released from tank

m1 − m2 = 135.3 − 103.4
m1 − m2 = 31.9 kg

50
1.44: PROBLEM DEFINITION
Situation:
Consider a mass of air in the atmosphere.
V = 1.5 mi3 .
Find:
Mass of air using units of slugs and kg.
Properties:
From Table A.2 (EFM12e), ρair = 0.00237 slugs/ft3 .
Assumptions:
The density of air is the value at sea level for standard conditions.

SOLUTION
Units of slugs

M = ρV
M = 0.00237 slug
ft3
× (1.5 × 5280)3 ft3

M = 5.23 × 108 slugs

Units of kg
 
8

kg
M = 5.23 × 10 slug × 14.59
slug

M = 7.63 × 109 kg

REVIEW
Note the assumption made above stating ”The density of air is the
value at sea level for standard conditions”. This assumption is not
safe if extreme accuracy is required because the mass will be some-
what less than we calculated because density decreases with altitude.
However our calculation is a good estimate for the purpose of illus-
trating that we are walking around at the bottom of a heavy ocean
of air!

51
1.45: PROBLEM DEFINITION
Situation:
Design of a CO2 cartridge to inflate a rubber raft.
Inflation pressure = 3 psi above patm = 17.7 psia = 122 kPa abs.
Find:
Estimate the volume of the raft.
Calculate the mass of CO2 (in grams) to inflate the raft.
Sketch:

Assumptions:
CO2 in the raft is at 62 ◦ F = 290 K.
Volume of the raft ≈ Volume of a cylinder with D = 0.45 m &
L = 16 m (8 meters for the length of the sides and 8 meters for the
lengths of the ends plus center tubes).
Properties:
CO2 , Table A.2 (EFM12e), R = 189 J/kg·K.

PLAN
Since mass is related to volume by m = ρV, the steps are:
1. Find volume using the formula for a cylinder.
2. Find density using the ideal gas law (IGL).
3. Calculate mass.

SOLUTION
1. Volume
πD2
V = ×L
4
π × 0.452

= × 16 m3
4
V = 2.54 m3

52
2. Ideal gas law
p
ρ =
RT
122, 000 N/ m2
=
(189 J/ kg · K) (290 K)
= 2.226 kg/m3

3. Mass of CO2

m = ρV
= 2.226 kg/m3 2.54 m3

m = 5660 g

REVIEW
The final mass (5.66 kg = 12.5 lbm) is large. This would require
a large and potentially expensive CO2 tank. Thus, this design idea
may be impractical for a product that is driven by cost.

53
1.46: PROBLEM DEFINITION

Find: List three common units for each variable:

a. Volume flow rate (Q), mass flow rate (ṁ), and pressure (p).
b. Force, energy, power.
c. Viscosity, surface tension.

PLAN
Use Table F.1 (EFM12e) to find common units

SOLUTION
a. Volume flow rate, mass flow rate, and pressure.

• Volume flow rate, m3 / s, ft3 / s or cfs, cfm or ft3 / m.

• Mass flow rate, kg/s, lbm/s, slug/s.

• Pressure, Pa, bar, psi or lbf/ in2 .

b. Force, energy, power.

• Force, lbf, N, dyne.

• Energy, J, ft·lbf, Btu.

• Power, W, Btu/s, ft·lbf/s.

c. Viscosity.

• Viscosity, Pa·s, kg/(m·s), poise.

54
1.47: PROBLEM DEFINITION
Situation:
Which of these is a correct conversion ratio?

SOLUTION
Answers (a) and (b) are correct

55
1.48: PROBLEM DEFINITION
Situation:
If the local atmospheric pressure is 84 kPa, use the grid method to
find the pressure in units of
a. psi
b. psf
c. bar
d. atmospheres
e. feet of water
f. inches of mercury

PLAN
Follow the process given in the text. Look up conversion ratios in
Table F.1 (EFM 12e).
a)

SOLUTION

1.450 × 10−4 psi

   
84 kPa 1000 Pa
1 kPa Pa

84 kPa = 12.2 psi

b)

SOLUTION

1.450 × 10−4 psi 144 in2

    
84 kPa 1000 Pa
1 kPa Pa 1 ft2

84 kPa = 1754 psf

c)

SOLUTION
   
84 kPa 1000 Pa 1 bar
1 kPa 100000 Pa

84 kPa = 0.84 bar

d)

SOLUTION

56
 1.450 × 10−4 psi
    
84 kPa 1000 Pa 1 atm
1 kPa Pa 14.7 psi

84 kPa = 0.829 atm

e)

SOLUTION
    
84 kPa 1000 Pa 0.004019 in-H2 0 1 ft
1 kPa Pa 12 in

84 kPa = 28.1 ft-H2 O

f)

SOLUTION
   
84 kPa 1000 Pa 1 in-Hg
1 kPa 3386.39 Pa

84 kPa = 24.8 in-Hg

57
Problem 1.49

For rows 2 to 4 in the following table, list the appropriate consistent

units. Row 1 gives an example.

Consistent Consistent
Row Situation Units Units
(SI) (traditional)
1 A height of h = 3.2 mm m ft
2 A flow rate of Q = 122 gpm
3 A viscosity of 1.0 centipoise
4 A rotation rate of 7 rpm

Feedback

The answers are as follows.

Consistent Consistent
Row Situation Units Units
(SI) (traditional)
1 A height of h = 3.2 mm m ft
2 A flow rate of Q = 122 gpm m3 /s ft3 /s
3 A viscosity of 1.0 centipoise Pa · s = kg/(m · s) lbf · s/ft2 = slug/ft · s
4 A rotation rate of 7 rpm rad/s rad/s

58
Problem 1.50

Suppose that time, length, and force are expressed in units of min-
utes, inches, and tons, respectively.

If units are to be consistent, what is the magnitude of one unit of

mass?
(a) 16 slugs (b) 32 slugs (c) 64 slugs (d) 32 × 103 slugs (e) 86 × 106 slugs

Feedback

Claim. The best answer is (e).

Reasoning: If units are to be consistent, then

if units are to be consistent, then

now, convert the right side to slugs

59
Problem 1.51

The magnitude of the temperature is the same if the units are re-
ported in ◦C or in ◦ F. Find the temperature.

Feedback

Claim: When the temperature is −40 ◦C, the temperature will also
be −40 ◦ F.

Reasoning:

60
Problem 1.52

In SI units, what is the magnitude of 2040 ft · lbf/s?

(a) 2800 (b) 850 (c) 1600 (d) 2100 (e) 1000

Feedback

Claim. The best choice is (a).

Reasoning:

The steps are:

1. Identify the dimensions
2. Convert the units

61
Problem 1.53

Show how to apply the grid method to convert 2200 ft · lbf/slug · ◦ R

to SI units.

The magnitude is:

(a) 370 (b) 1100 (c) 1200 (d) 740 (e) 930

Feedback

Claim. The best choice is (a)

Reasoning. The grid method applied to this task is as follows:

The steps are:

1. Identify the dimensions
2. Do the unit conversions; note that Table F.1 lists conversion
ratios.

62
Problem 1.54

A 20 cm diameter impeller on a centrifugal pump is rotating at 3600

rpm. What is the angular speed in SI units?

(a) 102 (b) 377 (c) 476 (d) 504 (e) 627

Feedback

Claim: The best choice is (b)

Reasoning:
1. Angular speed—aka, rotation rate—is given by
∆θ
ω = lim
∆t→0 ∆t

2. Thus, I convert to the SI unit (radian/second):

Tip: Engineers often need rotation rate in radians/second

Tip: Note that a radian is dimensionless. Thus radian/second is

often expressed as 1/second or 1/s or s−1

63
1.55: PROBLEM DEFINITION
Apply the grid method.

Situation:
Wind is hitting a window of building.
2
∆p = ρV2 .
ρ = 1.2 kg/ m3 , V = 60 mph.
Find:
a. Express the answer in pascals.
b. Express the answer in pounds force per square inch (psi).
c. Express the answer in inches of water column (in-H2 0).

PLAN
Follow the process for the grid method given in the text. Look up
conversion ratios in Table F.1 (EFM12e).

SOLUTION
a)
Pascals.
ρV 2
∆p =
2
2  2 
Pa · m · s2
  
1 1.2 kg 60 mph 1.0 m/ s
=
2 m3 1.0 2.237 mph kg

∆p = 432 Pa
b)
Pounds per square inch.

1.450 × 10−4 psi

 
∆p = 432 Pa
Pa

∆p = 0.062 6 psi
c)
Inches of water column
 
0.004019 in-H2 0
∆p = 432 Pa
Pa

∆p = 1.74 in-H2 0

64
1.56: PROBLEM DEFINITION
Apply the grid method.

Situation:
Force is given by F = ma.
a) m = 10 kg, a = 10 m/ s2 .
b) m = 10 lbm, a = 10 ft/ s2 .
c) m = 10 slug, a = 10 ft/ s2 .
Find:
Calculate force.

PLAN
Follow the process for the grid method given in the text. Look up
conversion ratios in Table F.1 (EFM12e).

SOLUTION
a)
Force in newtons for m = 10 kg and a = 10 m/ s2 .

F = ma
N · s2
 
m 
= (10 kg) 10 2
s kg · m

F = 100 N
b)
Force in lbf for m = 10 lbm and a = 10 ft/ s2 .

F = ma
lbf · s2
  
ft
= (10 lbm) 10 2
s 32.2 lbm · ft

F = 3.11 lbf
c)
Force in newtons for m = 10 slug and acceleration is a = 10 ft/ s2 .

F = ma
lbf · s2
   
ft 4.448 N
= (10 slug) 10 2
s slug · ft lbf

F = 445 N

65
1.57: PROBLEM DEFINITION
Apply the grid method.

Situation:
A cyclist is traveling along a road.
P = F V.
V = 24 mi/ h, F = 5 lbf.
Find:
a) Find power in watts.
b) Find the energy in food calories to ride for 1 hour.

PLAN
Follow the process for the grid method given in the text. Look up
conversion ratios in Table F.1 (EFM12e).

SOLUTION
a)
Power

P = FV     
4.448 N 1.0 m/ s W· s
= (5 lbf) (24 mph)
lbf 2.237 mph N· m

P = 239 W
b)
Energy

∆E = P
 ∆t    
239 J 3600 s 1.0 calorie (nutritional)
= (1 h)
s h 4187 J

∆E = 205 calories

66
1.58: PROBLEM DEFINITION
Apply the grid method.

Situation:
A pump operates for one year.
P = 20 hp.
The pump operates for 20 hours/day.
Electricity costs $0.10/kWh.
Find:
The cost (U.S. dollars) of operating the pump for one year.

PLAN
1. Find energy consumed using E = P t, where P is power and t is
time.
2. Find cost using C = E × ($0.1/kWh).

SOLUTION
1. Energy Consumed

E = Pt    
W 20 h 365 d
= (20 hp)
1.341 × 10−3 hp d year
 
kWh
= 1. 09 × 108 W · h per year
1000 W · h

E = 1.09 × 105 kWh per year

2. Cost

C = E($0.1/kWh)
 
5

$0.10
= 1. 09 × 10 kWh
kWh

C = $10, 900

67
1.59: PROBLEM DEFINITION
Situation:
Of the 3 lists below, which sets of units are consistent? Select all
that apply.
a. pounds-mass, pounds-force, feet, and seconds.
b. slugs, pounds-force, feet, and seconds
c. kilograms, newtons, meters, and seconds.

SOLUTION
Answers (a) and (c) are correct.

68
Problem 1.60

Background: In the United States, fuel economy for a car is mea-

sured in miles per gallon. In Canada and many other countries, fuel
economy is measured in liters per 100 km, which has a unit symbol
of L/100km.

In units of L/100km, a mileage of 20 mpg is:

(a) 19 (b) 12 (c) 7.4 (d) 29 (e) 0.12

Feedback

The best answer is (b). The reasoning is

1. The dimensions of mpg are distance/volume.
2. The dimensions of L/100km are volume/distance.
3. Thus, start with the following tautology
(tautology: a statement that is always true.)

gal gal
=
20 mile 20 mile
4. Next convert units on the right side as follows

69
Problem 1.61

The units of Pa/J are equivalent to

(a) m (b) m2 (c) m3 (d) m−2 (e) m−3

Feedback

Claim: The best choice is (e).

Reasoning:

70
Problem 1.62

(T/F) The quantity 360 ft · lbf/s2 has the dimension of power.

Feedback

Claim: False is the best answer.

Reasoning:

The steps are:

1. Match the units to their associated dimensions
2. List the dimensions
3. Draw a conclusion

71
Problem 1.63

(T/F) While force is a dimension, it is not a primary dimension.

Feedback

Claim: True is the best choice.

Feedback:
1. Force is dimension because force is something that is measured
2. The set of primary dimensions (PDs) are mass, length, time,
temperature, . . .
3. Force is not in the set of PDs
4. Any dimension that is not in the set of PDs is a secondary
dimension.

72
Problem 1.64

(T/F) The set of primary dimensions is (mass, length, time).

Feedback

Claim: False is the best choice.

Reasoning: The set of primary dimensions or PDs is (mass, length,

time, temperature, electric current, . . . ). Thus, the given set is
missing some of the PDs.

73
Problem 1.65

What parameter has primary dimensions of F L/T ?

(a) power (b) torque (c) energy/mass (d) energy (e) viscosity

Feedback

Claim: Answer (a) is the best choice

Reasoning:

The steps are:

1. Apply the definition of work (work = force x distance)
2. Apply the definition of power (power = work/time)

74
1.66: PROBLEM DEFINITION
Situation:
List the primary dimensions of each of the following units: kWh,
poise, slug, cfm, cSt.
Find:
Primary dimensions for each given unit: kWh, poise, slug, cfm,
cSt.

PLAN
1. Find each primary dimension by using Table F.1 (EFM12e).
2. Organize results using a table.

SOLUTION
Unit Associated Dimension Associated Primary Dimensions
kWh Energy M L2 /T 2
poise Viscosity M/ (L · T )
slug Mass M
cfm Volume Flow Rate L3 /T
cSt Kinematic viscosity L2 /T

75
1.67: PROBLEM DEFINITION
Situation: The hydrostatic equation has three common forms:
p1 p2
+ z1 = + z2 = constant
γ γ

pz = p1 + γz1 = p2 + γz2 = constant

∆p = −γ∆z

Find: For each variable in these equations, list the name, symbol,
and primary dimensions of each variable.

PLAN
Look up variables in Table A.6 (EFM12e). Organize results using
a table.

SOLUTION
Name Symbol Primary dimensions
pressure p M/LT 2
specific weight γ M/L2 T 2
elevation z L
piezometric pressure pz M/LT 2
change in pressure ∆p M/LT 2
change in elevation ∆z L

76
1.68: PROBLEM DEFINITION
Situation:
The hydrostatic equation is
p
+z =C
γ
p is pressure, γ is specific weight, z is elevation and C is a constant.
Find:
Prove that the hydrostatic equation is dimensionally homoge-
neous.

PLAN
Show that each term has the same primary dimensions. Thus, show
that the primary dimensions of p/γ equal the primary dimensions of
z. Find primary dimensions using Table F.1 (EFM12e).

SOLUTION
1. Primary dimensions of p/γ:
    2 2
p [p] M LT
= = 2
=L
γ [γ] LT M

2. Primary dimensions of z :

[z] = L

3. Dimensional homogeneity. Since the primary dimensions of each

term is length, the equation is dimensionally homogeneous. Note
that the constant C in the equation will also have the same primary
dimension.

77
1.69: PROBLEM DEFINITION
Situation:
Four terms are given in the problem statement.
Find: Primary dimensions of each term.
a) ρV 2 /σ (kinetic pressure).
b) T (torque).
c) P (power).
d) ρV 2 L/σ (Weber number).

SOLUTION
a. Kinetic pressure:
 2    2
ρV 2 M L M
= [ρ] [V ] = 3
=
2 L T L · T2

b. Torque.

M · L2
 
ML
[Torque] = [Force] [Distance] = (L) =
T2 T2

c. Power (from Table F.1, EFM12e).

M · L2
[P ] =
T3
d. Weber Number:
[ρ] [V ]2 [L] (M/L3 ) (L/T )2 (L)
 2 
ρV L
= = = []
σ [σ] (M/T 2 )

Thus, this is a dimensionless group

78
1.70: PROBLEM DEFINITION
Situation:
Two
Z terms are specified.
a. ρV 2 dA.
Z
d
b. dt ρV dV .
V
Find:
Primary dimensions for each term.

PLAN
1. To find primary dimensions for term a, use the idea that an
integral is defined using a sum.
2. To find primary dimensions for term b, use the idea that a deriva-
tive is defined using a ratio.

SOLUTION
Term a:
Z     2
M L
ρV dA = [ρ] V 2 [A] =
2
L2 = ML
 

T2
L3 T
Term b:

Z 
ρV dV M

L


(L3 )
 Z 
d [ρ] [V ] [V] L3 T ML
ρV dV = = = = T2
dt V [t] [t] T

79
1.71: PROBLEM DEFINITION
Note: solutions for this problem will vary, but should include the
steps indicated in bold.
Problem Statement
Apply the WWM and Grid Method to find the acceleraton for a
force of 2 N acting on an object of 7 ounces.
Define the situation (summarize the physics, check for inconsis-
tent units)
A force acting on a body is causing it to accelerate.
The physics of this situation are described by Newton’s 2nd Law
of motion, F = ma
The units are inconsistent
State the Goal
a <== the acceleration of the object
Generate Ideas and Make a Plan
1. Apply Grid Method
2. Apply Newton’s 2nd Law of motion, F = ma.
3. Do calculations, and conversions to SI units.
4. Answer should be in m/s2
Take Action (Execute the Plan)

F = ma
   
2 kg · m 7 oz 1 lb 1 kg  a m 
=
s2 16 oz 2.2 lb s2
m
a = 10.1 s2

Review the Solution to the Problem

(typical student reflective comment)
This is a straightforword F = ma problem, but in the real world you
should always check whether the units are from different systems,
and do the appropriate conversions if they are.

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Problem 1.72

For the given problem, show how to apply the Wales-Woods model
(WWM).

Problem Statement
A force F acts on one end of a board to support a rock. Calculate
(a) the force in newtons that is acting on the fulcrum and (b) the
mechanical advantage. The rock weighs 1000 N, L1 = 100 cm,
and L2 = 90 cm.

Feedback

Feedback: below is one way I might apply the WWM.

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Problem 1.73

Answer the following questions:

a. What is a problem?
b. Why learn how to solve problems well? Create a list that
presents the most important reasons.
c. According to the Wales-Woods Model (WWM), what are the
six steps for solving a problem?

Feedback

Feedback. One way to answer the questions is like this:

a. A problem is a situation that you must deal with, especially
when you have no idea about how to proceed.
b. If you are a skilled problem solver, then you can
• have a game plan for attacking each new problem you face
• solve nearly every new problem you encounter
• solve each new problem with the minimal amounts of
time, cost, resources, . . .
• solve each new problem with maximum amounts of en-
joyment, fun, pleasure . . .
• minimize your stress, anxiety, frustration . . .
• continually acquire new knowledge
• continually improve your problem solving process
• solve insanely hard problems; problems that are so diffi-
cult that many people would consider the problem to be
impossible to solve
c. According to the WWM, the six steps for solving a problem
are:
i Gather all the appropriate facts so that your present sit-
uation is well defined.
ii Describe your goal state so that your goal is concrete—
aka measurable—and motivating.
iii Generate many ideas for reaching the goal state and select
the best idea(s)
iv Make a plan—that is, a set of steps—that will result in
reaching the goal state.
v Execute the steps of your plan.
vi Review your problem solving method, and validate your
solution.

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