Drainage Area When Peak Discharge For Field Application Is Considered Calculator

Formula Used:

\[ Drainage Area = \frac{Peak Discharge}{\left(\frac{1}{3.6}\right) \times Mean Intensity of Precipitation \times Runoff Coefficient} \]

Drainage Area (AD):

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1. What is Drainage Area Calculation?

Drainage Area calculation determines the total surface area where rainwater flows over the ground surface back into streams, based on peak discharge, precipitation intensity, and runoff characteristics.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ Drainage Area = \frac{Peak Discharge}{\left(\frac{1}{3.6}\right) \times Mean Intensity of Precipitation \times Runoff Coefficient} \]

Where:

Peak Discharge (Qp) — Maximum volume flow rate (m³/s)
Mean Intensity of Precipitation (itcp) — Average rainfall intensity (m/s)
Runoff Coefficient (Cr) — Dimensionless coefficient relating runoff to precipitation

Explanation: This formula calculates the drainage area required to handle the peak discharge based on precipitation characteristics and surface runoff properties.

3. Importance of Drainage Area Calculation

Details: Accurate drainage area calculation is crucial for hydraulic engineering, flood control planning, urban drainage system design, and watershed management.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter peak discharge in m³/s, mean intensity of precipitation in m/s, and runoff coefficient (between 0 and 1). All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the significance of the 1/3.6 factor?
A: The 1/3.6 factor is used for unit conversion when working with different measurement systems for precipitation intensity and discharge.

Q2: How is runoff coefficient determined?
A: Runoff coefficient depends on surface type, slope, soil characteristics, and land use, typically ranging from 0.1 for permeable surfaces to 0.9 for impervious surfaces.

Q3: What are typical values for precipitation intensity?
A: Precipitation intensity varies by region and storm duration, typically ranging from 0.000001 m/s (light rain) to 0.0001 m/s (heavy storm).

Q4: When is this calculation most useful?
A: This calculation is particularly useful for designing drainage systems, culverts, and stormwater management infrastructure in urban and rural areas.

Q5: Are there limitations to this formula?
A: This formula assumes uniform rainfall distribution and may need adjustment for complex terrain, varying soil conditions, or extreme weather events.