3. Boundary Layer Thickness

Try these first

1. 1.

   What is boundary layer thickness?

   Hint

   Think about where flow slows down near a surface.

2. 2.

   What is the transition zone?

   Hint

   Consider the flow types before and after this region.

3. 3.

   What is boundary layer thickness defined as?

   • The distance until velocity achieves 50% of free stream velocity.
   • The distance at which velocity reaches 99% of free stream velocity.
   • The distance from a plate at which turbulence begins.

   Hint

   Consider what velocity percentage is critical in fluid flow studies.

4. 4.

   True or False: The laminar sublayer exists in the turbulent boundary layer.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Think about the different layers of flow.

5. 5.

   Calculate the boundary layer thickness for air flowing over a flat plate at a given flow rate, using Reynolds number.

   Hint

   Check the relationship between flow regime and boundary layer development.

6. 6.

   Explain how altering the surface texture of an object affects its boundary layer characteristics.

   Hint

   Consider how interactions between the flow and surface occur.