hydrostatic equilibrium
"Hydrostatic equilibrium" describes a state of balance crucial in both fluid mechanics and astrophysics, ensuring stability in liquids and celestial bodies.
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Definition
C1Fluid Mechanics
(technical, academic)A state where a fluid is at rest or has a constant flow velocity, with pressure balancing gravitational forces.
Example
- In hydrostatic equilibrium, the pressure at any point in the fluid is constant over time.
- The concept of hydrostatic equilibrium is essential for understanding how dams hold back water.
C1Astrophysics
(technical, academic)A condition where the inward pull of gravity is balanced by the outward pressure from a star's internal processes.
Example
- Stars maintain their shape through hydrostatic equilibrium, preventing them from collapsing or expanding uncontrollably.
- Hydrostatic equilibrium explains why planets and stars have spherical shapes.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "hydrostatic equilibrium":