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⚛️ Physics  ·  Mechanical Properties of Fluids  ·  NEET & JEE

Two solid spheres of the same material, radii in ratio 3:1, fall through the same viscous fluid. The ratio of their terminal velocities is:

Answer: 9 : 1.

  • A 3 : 1
  • B 6 : 1
  • C 9 : 1
  • D 27 : 1

Correct answer: C. 9 : 1

Explanation: Terminal velocity &prop; r<sup>2</sup> (Stokes), so the ratio is 3<sup>2</sup> : 1 = 9 : 1.

Continuity Equation: Narrow Pipe → Faster FlowA₁, v₁ (wide, slow)A₂, v₂ (narrow, fast)A₁v₁ = A₂v₂ (continuity)Smaller area → higher speed → (by Bernoulli) LOWER pressure

Since the same volume of fluid must pass every cross-section per second (continuity), the fluid speeds up where the pipe narrows; Bernoulli's equation then says this faster-moving fluid has lower pressure - the principle behind a venturi meter and an aircraft wing's lift.

Concept context

Pressure, buoyancy, Bernoulli equation, viscosity, and surface tension.

Read the full Mechanical Properties of Fluids notes →