In a pipe of varying cross-section, as fluid enters the narrower region it exhibits:

Correct answer: B. High velocity, low pressure

  • A. High velocity, high pressure
  • B. High velocity, low pressure
  • C. Low velocity, high pressure
  • D. Low velocity, low pressure

Explanation

Continuity forces the speed up in the constriction, and since the total energy per unit volume is fixed, the gain in kinetic energy must be paid for by a drop in pressure energy. This pairing of fast flow with low pressure is the heart of Bernoulli's principle. A Venturi meter measures flow rate by reading exactly this pressure difference.

This question appeared on the UHS MDCAT 2025 paper, which you can sit online with every answer explained.

Written and checked by , contributorLast updated
Report an error

The more specific you are, the faster it gets fixed. A source beats an opinion.

Prefer email? support@testustad.com

About Bernoulli's Equation

Bernoulli’s equation applies conservation of energy to steady flow of an incompressible, non-viscous fluid along a streamline: pressure, kinetic and gravitational terms have a constant total. It explains pressure-speed changes in narrow pipes, Venturi meters and lift, and differs from continuity because it relates pressure as well as velocity and height.

Practise Fluid Dynamics

363 free Fluid Dynamics MCQs from Physics, each with the correct answer and an explanation. Unlimited attempts, no account needed.

Discussion

Stuck on an option, or know a faster way to get there? Ask or explain it here.

No comments yet. Be the first to explain this one.

Exams that ask Physics questions like this

Physics is on 16 papers prepared for on TestUstad, and all of them draw the same bank, so this question is worth knowing for every one of them.

More Bernoulli's Equation questions