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Diameter Of Particle Given Minimum Critical Scour Velocity Calculator

Formula Used:

\[ D_p = \left( \frac{V_{min}}{3 \times \sqrt{g \times (G - 1)}} \right)^2 \]

m/s
m/s²

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1. What is the Diameter of Particle Formula?

The formula calculates the diameter of sediment particles that can be moved or eroded by a fluid flow at its minimum critical scour velocity. It's derived from the relationship between particle size, fluid velocity, gravity, and particle specific gravity.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ D_p = \left( \frac{V_{min}}{3 \times \sqrt{g \times (G - 1)}} \right)^2 \]

Where:

Explanation: The formula accounts for the balance between hydrodynamic forces and gravitational forces acting on sediment particles.

3. Importance of Particle Diameter Calculation

Details: Calculating particle diameter is crucial for sediment transport studies, erosion prediction, hydraulic engineering design, and environmental impact assessments of water infrastructure projects.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter minimum critical scour velocity in m/s, acceleration due to gravity in m/s² (default 9.8 m/s²), and specific gravity of particle. All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is minimum critical scour velocity?
A: Minimum critical scour velocity is the minimum fluid velocity required to initiate movement of sediment particles from a stationary state.

Q2: Why is specific gravity important in this calculation?
A: Specific gravity determines the relative density of particles compared to water, affecting how easily they can be moved by fluid flow.

Q3: What are typical values for specific gravity of sediment particles?
A: Most natural sediment particles have specific gravity between 2.5-2.7, with quartz sand typically around 2.65.

Q4: How does particle shape affect the calculation?
A: The formula assumes spherical particles. Non-spherical particles may have different critical velocities due to variations in drag and lift forces.

Q5: What are the limitations of this formula?
A: The formula may be less accurate for very fine or very coarse sediments, and doesn't account for particle cohesion or bed roughness effects.

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