16.2.4. Flow Depth and Velocity Variations

Try these first

1. 1.

   Define specific energy in your own words.

   Hint

   Focus on what energy refers to in terms of fluid mechanics.

2. 2.

   What is the Froude number for critical flow?

   Hint

   Recall the definition of Froude number.

3. 3.

   What is the condition for critical flow?

   • Froude number less than 1
   • Froude number equal to 1
   • Froude number greater than 1

   Hint

   What type of flow condition is critical flow?

4. 4.

   True or False: Hydraulic jumps only occur in supercritical flows.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Remember the flow types.

5. 5.

   A sluice gate controls a flow of water where the upstream depth is 2m and velocity 3m/s. After passing through the gate, calculate the downstream depth assuming a hydraulic jump occurs.

   Hint

   Use mass and energy conservation equations.

6. 6.

   Design a rectangular channel with a target Q of 30 m³/s. Determine the optimal width and depth that minimizes the perimeter while maintaining hydraulic efficiency.

   Hint

   Apply calculus to find the minimum perimeter condition.