If a one-square-inch column contains water to a height of 100 feet, what is the pressure in psi at the base of this column?

To determine the pressure at the base of a one-square-inch column of water that is 100 feet high, we can apply the hydrostatic pressure formula. The pressure exerted by a column of fluid in a gravitational field is given by the formula:

Pressure (in psi) = Height (in feet) x Density (in pounds per cubic foot) / 144 (to convert from lb/ft² to psi)

For water, the density is approximately 62.4 pounds per cubic foot. Therefore, we can calculate the pressure as follows:

• Height = 100 feet

• Density of water = 62.4 lb/ft³

• Conversion factor = 144 (to convert square inches to square feet)

Substituting the values into the formula gives:

Pressure = (100 feet) x (62.4 lb/ft³) / 144

Calculating this results in:

Pressure = (6240 lb/ft²) / 144

Pressure ≈ 43.4 psi

This calculation illustrates that the pressure at the base of a 100-foot tall column of water in a one-square-inch area is indeed 43.4 psi. This understanding is crucial for fire apparatus operators in assessing the water