Learning Path
Question & Answer1
Understand Question2
Review Options3
Learn Explanation4
Explore TopicChoose the Best Answer
A
It decreases the density, which can disrupt hydrostatic equilibrium.
B
It increases the density, supporting hydrostatic equilibrium.
C
It has no effect on the density, keeping hydrostatic equilibrium stable.
D
It only affects the pressure, not the density.
Understanding the Answer
Let's break down why this is correct
Answer
When water gets warmer, its molecules move faster and spread out a little, so the water becomes less dense. Because the density drops, a given mass of water now occupies a larger volume, which means the pressure at a certain depth is lower than it would be if the water were colder. Hydrostatic equilibrium relies on a steady balance between pressure and weight; with lower density, the pressure gradient needed to support the same weight of water is reduced, so the system can still be in equilibrium but the pressure at each depth will be lower. For example, a 10 °C increase in a lake might lower its density by about 0. 8 %, reducing the pressure at 10 m depth by roughly 8 kPa, yet the water column still balances the weight of the water above it.
Detailed Explanation
When water warms, its molecules move faster and spread apart, which makes the water less dense. Other options are incorrect because The idea that hotter water is heavier is a common misunderstanding; Saying temperature has no effect on density ignores the fact that density is a function of temperature.
Key Concepts
Thermal Effects on Hydrostatic Equilibrium
Topic
Hydrostatic Equilibrium
Difficulty
easy level question
Cognitive Level
understand
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