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Critical Depth Formula:
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Critical Depth occurs when the flow in a channel has a minimum specific energy. Specific energy refers to the sum of the depth of flow and the velocity head. It represents the condition where the flow transitions between subcritical and supercritical states.
The calculator uses the Critical Depth formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula calculates the depth at which flow in an open channel has minimum specific energy, which is a fundamental concept in open channel hydraulics.
Details: Calculating critical depth is essential for designing hydraulic structures, analyzing flow conditions in open channels, and understanding flow transitions between subcritical and supercritical states.
Tips: Enter critical velocity in m/s and acceleration due to gravity in m/s². Standard gravity is 9.8 m/s². All values must be positive numbers.
Q1: What is Critical Velocity?
A: Critical Velocity is the greatest velocity with which a fluid can flow through a given conduit without becoming turbulent.
Q2: When does Critical Depth occur?
A: Critical Depth occurs when the flow in a channel has minimum specific energy, typically at the transition point between subcritical and supercritical flow.
Q3: What is the significance of Critical Depth in hydraulic engineering?
A: Critical Depth is crucial for designing weirs, flumes, and other hydraulic structures, as well as for analyzing flow conditions and energy dissipation in open channels.
Q4: How does Critical Depth relate to Froude number?
A: At Critical Depth, the Froude number equals 1. When Froude number < 1, flow is subcritical; when > 1, flow is supercritical.
Q5: Are there limitations to this calculation?
A: This formula provides the theoretical critical depth. Actual conditions may vary due to channel shape, roughness, and other hydraulic factors.