What effect occurs if a storage tank is drained too quickly?

When a storage tank is drained too quickly, a vacuum can be created within the tank. This happens because as the liquid is removed, the volume of liquid decreases rapidly, which can lead to a pressure drop inside the tank. If the tank is not vented properly, the external atmospheric pressure may exceed the internal pressure of the tank, pulling the tank walls inward and creating a vacuum effect.

This is an important concept in fluid dynamics and storage tank management, as the formation of a vacuum can lead to structural issues for the tank, cause potential leaks, or even collapse the tank if not designed to withstand such pressure differences. Proper monitoring and methods for draining liquid from tanks are essential to prevent such occurrences and to ensure operational safety.