14.1.1. Open Channel Flow

Try these first

1. 1.

   What defines the hydraulic radius?

   Hint

   Think about the area and perimeter of the channel.

2. 2.

   List two forces acting in open channel flow.

   Hint

   Consider what makes the fluid move.

3. 3.

   What is the main difference between open channel flow and pipe flow?

   • Open channel flow has pressure forces
   • Open channel flow has a free surface
   • Both are the same

   Hint

   Consider what you're observing visually.

4. 4.

   True or False: In open channel flow, the pressure at the free surface is atmospheric.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Think about the nature of free surfaces.

5. 5.

   A trapezoidal channel has a bottom width of 5 m, side slopes of 1:1, and a depth of 3 m. Calculate the hydraulic radius for the channel.

   Hint

   Remember to break the channel into simpler shapes for calculating area and perimeter.

6. 6.

   Determine the type of flow and Froude number for an open channel flow with a flow velocity of 2 m/s, and a depth of 1.5 m.

   Hint

   Use the formula for the Froude number which involves flow velocity and depth.