Question

What do you understand by the term lateral pressure of fluids?

Answer 1

1. A fluid has an inherent ability to flow.
2. When a fluid is confined in a container, the molecules of the fluid try to flow but there occurs a restriction in the flow due to the walls of the container.
3. The molecules of the fluid exert pressure on the walls of the container in the horizontal or lateral direction.
4. The pressure exerted by the fluid in the horizontal or lateral direction is called “lateral pressure”.
5. Lateral pressure is directly proportional to the density of the fluid.
6. Denser the fluid, more will be the lateral pressure and vice versa.