13. Introduction to Open Channel Flow and Uniform Flow
The chapter elaborates on the fundamentals of open channel flow, defining it as the flow of fluid in a partially filled channel exposed to atmospheric pressure. It discusses classifications based on time, space, Reynolds number, and Froude number, highlighting important characteristics such as free surface distortions that create waves. Additionally, the text introduces surface solitary waves and their generation in open channels.
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What we have learnt
- Open channel flow is characterized by a free surface that can distort and is influenced by atmospheric pressure.
- The classification of open channel flow includes steady and unsteady flow based on time, and uniform and non-uniform flow based on space.
- Reynolds number and Froude number play critical roles in determining the flow type, with specific thresholds for laminar, transitional, and turbulent conditions.
Key Concepts
- -- Open Channel Flow
- The flow of fluid in a channel or conduit that is not completely filled with water, exposing the surface to atmospheric pressure.
- -- Reynolds Number
- A dimensionless number that helps classify flow types as laminar, transitional, or turbulent based on the ratio of inertial to viscous forces.
- -- Froude Number
- A dimensionless number defined as the ratio of flow inertia to gravitational forces, used to classify flow regimes into subcritical, critical, and supercritical.
- -- Surface Solitary Waves
- Waves that occur at the free surface of a fluid, generated from disturbances like movements or falling objects.
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