2014/04/22 by Stephen Hughes, Som Gurung · 2 citations
Physics and Astronomy · Computer Science · Engineering · #Experimental and Theoretical Physics Studies #Time Series Analysis and Forecasting #Fluid Dynamics Simulations and Interactions #Siphon (mollusc) #Hypobaric chamber #Barometer #Waterfall #Hydrostatic pressure #Hydrostatic equilibrium #Mechanics #Atmospheric pressure #Physics #Cohesion (chemistry) #Geology #Meteorology #Geography #Anatomy #Archaeology #Astronomy #Biology
paper · pdf · doi:10.1038/srep04741
openalex publication_date 2014/04/22 · openalex created_date 2025/10/10 · openalex updated_date 2026/07/23
Siphons have been used since ancient times, but exactly how they work is still a matter of debate. In order to elucidate the modus operandi of a siphon, a 1.5 m high siphon was set up in a hypobaric chamber to explore siphon behaviour in a low-pressure environment. When the pressure in the chamber was reduced to about 0.18 atmospheres, a curious waterfall-like feature appeared downstream from the apex of the siphon. A hypothesis is presented to explain the waterfall phenomenon. When the pressure was reduced further the siphon broke into two columns--in effect becoming two back-to-back barometers. This experiment demonstrates the role of atmospheric pressure in explaining the hydrostatic characteristics of a siphon and the role of molecular cohesion in explaining the hydrodynamic aspects.