Chapter 5, Problem 1DQ

Consider the following apparatus: a test tube coveredwith a nonpermeable elastic membrane inside a containerthat is closed with a cork. A syringe goes throughthe cork.

a. As you push down on the syringe, how does themembrane covering the test tube change?
b. You stop pushing the syringe but continue to hold itdown. In a few seconds, what happens to themembrane?

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:Change in membrane cover if syringe is pushed down should be explained.

Concept introduction:Force per unit area is called pressure. Its SI unit is Pascal. Expression for pressure is as follows:

  $\text{Pressure}=\frac{\text{Force}}{\text{Area}}$

Explanation of Solution

When syringe is pushed down, pressure inside container and outside test tube increases. To balance effect of this increased pressure, elastic membrane expands in downward direction into test tube.

Interpretation Introduction

Interpretation:Event that occurs if syringe is continued to be held down should be determined.

Concept introduction: Force per unit area is called pressure. Its SI unit is Pascal. Expression for pressure is as follows:

  $\text{Pressure}=\frac{\text{Force}}{\text{Area}}$

Explanation of Solution

When syringe is pushed down and hold down, constant pressure is applied on test tube and ultimately membrane will break.