Siphon Physics Simulator
Atmospheric pressure drives fluid over barrier. Adjust source/outlet heights and tube peak. v = √(2g·Δh). Warning at 10.3m atmospheric limit.
HOW DOES A SIPHON WORK?
A siphon is a tube that allows liquid to flow uphill, above the surface of a reservoir, without a pump, provided that the discharge end is lower than the reservoir surface. The flow is driven by the pressure difference between the reservoir surface and the exit point, as well as the weight of the liquid column in the longer discharge arm.
THE CORE REQUIREMENT
For a siphon to function: 1. The tube must be full of liquid (primed). 2. The exit must be lower than the entry level. 3. The maximum height of the "hump" cannot exceed the atmospheric pressure limit (approx. 10m for water).
HOW TO USE THIS VISUALIZATION
1. **Adjust Reservoir Levels**: Change the height of the two containers.\n2. **Modify Tube Height**: Raise the middle of the tube and watch for flow breakage.\n3. **Change Fluid**: See how the maximum siphon height changes with fluid density.\n4. **Analyze Pressure**: View the pressure gradient along the length of the tube.
CORE FORMULAS
AP EXAM CONNECTION
Unit: Unit 8: Fluids (Topic 8.3)
Learning Objective: 8.2.2
COMMON MISCONCEPTIONS
- Thinking siphons work because of "suction" (it's atmospheric pressure and gravity).
- Believing the siphon can lift water to any height.
- Thinking the speed of the siphon depends on the diameter of the tube (it depends on height difference).
KEY TAKEAWAYS
- Flow is driven by height difference.
- Atmospheric pressure pushes the liquid up.
- Max height is limited by barometric pressure.
- The tube must be primed to start the flow.
PRACTICE QUESTIONS
Q1 (CONCEPTUAL): Will a siphon work in a vacuum?
Show Answer & Explanation
Answer: Generally no, or very limited.
Explanation: Atmospheric pressure is required to push the liquid up to the top of the hump. Without it, the liquid column would separate.
