What happens to potential energy in the form of pressure when the velocity of a flowing liquid increases?

When the velocity of a flowing liquid increases, the potential energy associated with pressure decreases. This relationship is derived from Bernoulli's principle, which states that in a streamline flow, an increase in the speed of the fluid results in a decrease in pressure or potential energy.

As the fluid moves faster, its kinetic energy rises, and since energy must be conserved in a closed system, this increase in kinetic energy leads to a corresponding decrease in potential energy in the form of pressure. Therefore, as the velocity rises, the fluid has less potential energy available to exert pressure against surfaces or resist flow obstructions.

This interplay is crucial in various engineering applications, such as in piping systems and fluid dynamics, illustrating how fluid behavior can change with variations in speed and pressure. Understanding this principle helps engineers design systems that manage fluid movement efficiently and safely.