Dynamics of Water Discharge from a Cylinder

This experiment demonstrates the dynamics of water owing out of a tank. Using the rate change of mass for an emptying cylinder, we investigate the application of Bernoulli's equation and the resulting Torricelli's theorem. We also observe the effects of constriction on the parcel of water owing out of the tank. Students will investigate fluid dynamics, pressure and will relish how a phenomena as simple as water owing out from a tank can lead to rich dynamics that can be explored mathematically.