The Reynolds number (Re) is a dimensionless quantity used to characterize:

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The Reynolds number is a dimensionless quantity used to characterize the flow regime, specifically whether it is laminar (smooth) or turbulent (chaotic). It depends on the velocity of the fluid, its characteristic length (such as pipe diameter), and its viscosity. A low Reynolds number indicates laminar flow, while a high Reynolds number suggests turbulence. Choices A, C, and D are incorrect because the Reynolds number is not related to fluid density, surface tension effects, or buoyancy force magnitude.

Correct Answer: D

Rationale: Surface tension creates a restoring force that holds the object on the surface. The liquid's surface behaves like a stretched membrane, and when disturbed, it tends to return the object to its original position, creating a restoring force. The other choices are incorrect: A buoyant force acts on objects submerged in a fluid, not floating on the surface; pressure differences usually affect sinking objects, not floating ones; drag force is a resistance force that opposes motion, not related to surface tension.

Correct Answer: B

Rationale: The continuity equation for steady, incompressible flow states that the mass flow rate is the product of the fluid's density, velocity, and cross-sectional area. Hence, ṁ = ρvA. Choice A is incorrect because the mass flow rate can be determined using the given formula. Choice C is incorrect as Bernoulli's principle does not directly relate to the mass flow rate calculation. Choice D is incorrect as the equation of state is not needed to calculate the mass flow rate in this scenario.

Correct Answer: A

Rationale: The correct formula for the pressure at a certain depth in a fluid according to the hydrostatic equation is P = ρgh. Here, ρ represents the fluid's density, g is the gravitational acceleration, and h is the depth. This formula shows that pressure increases linearly with the density of the fluid, the acceleration due to gravity, and the depth. Choices B, C, and D are incorrect because they do not accurately represent the relationship between pressure, density, gravitational acceleration, and depth in a static fluid.

Correct Answer: C

Rationale: The first law of thermodynamics states that energy cannot be created or destroyed; it can only be transferred or converted from one form to another, ensuring energy conservation in any system. Choice A is incorrect because it goes against the principle of energy conservation. Choice B is incorrect as it refers to the second law of thermodynamics, which states that the total entropy of an isolated system always increases. Choice D is incorrect because the temperature of a system is not directly proportional to its entropy.