Question

A cubic tank is completely filled with water. What will be the ratio of the hydrostatic force exerted on the base and on any one of the vertical sides?

(a) 1:1

(b) 2:1

(c) 1:2

(d) 3:2

This question was posed to me in examination.

My doubt stems from Hydrostatic Force on Plane Area in portion Hydrostatic Forces on Surfaces of Fluid Mechanics

Answer 1

The correct choice is (b) 2:1

The best explanation: Hydrostatic force per unit width on a vertical side of a beaker Fv = ^1 ⁄ 2 * ρgh^2, where ρ = density of the liquid and h= height of the liquid column. Hydrostatic force per unit width on the base of the beaker = Fb = ρgh * h = ρgh^2. Thus, Fb : Fv = 2 : 1.