Formula Used:
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The formula calculates the polar angle (θ) for non-lifting flow over a circular cylinder based on radial velocity, cylinder radius, radial coordinate, and freestream velocity. It's derived from potential flow theory for inviscid, incompressible flow around a cylinder.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula calculates the angular position where the radial velocity component matches the given input values in non-lifting flow around a circular cylinder.
Details: Calculating polar angle from radial velocity is crucial in fluid dynamics for analyzing flow patterns, determining stagnation points, and understanding velocity distribution around cylindrical objects in non-lifting flow conditions.
Tips: Enter radial velocity in m/s, radial coordinate in m, cylinder radius in m, and freestream velocity in m/s. All values must be positive, and radial coordinate must be greater than cylinder radius for valid results.
Q1: What is non-lifting flow over a circular cylinder?
A: Non-lifting flow refers to potential flow around a cylinder where there is no circulation, resulting in symmetric flow patterns and zero lift force.
Q2: Why does the formula use arccos function?
A: The arccos function is used because the radial velocity component is related to the cosine of the polar angle in potential flow theory.
Q3: What are typical applications of this calculation?
A: This calculation is used in aerodynamics, hydrodynamics, and various engineering applications involving flow around cylindrical structures.
Q4: Are there limitations to this formula?
A: Yes, this formula assumes ideal potential flow, inviscid fluid, incompressible flow, and no circulation around the cylinder.
Q5: What if the calculated value is complex?
A: If the argument of arccos is outside [-1,1], the result is not physically meaningful, indicating invalid input parameters.