Formula Used:
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The diameter of particle formula calculates the size of sediment particles based on their settling velocity under turbulent conditions, accounting for gravitational acceleration and the specific gravity of the sediment relative to water.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: The formula relates particle diameter to its settling behavior in turbulent flow conditions, considering the particle's density relative to water and gravitational forces.
Details: Determining particle diameter is essential in sediment transport studies, hydraulic engineering, environmental monitoring, and understanding erosion and deposition processes in natural water bodies.
Tips: Enter settling velocity in m/s, acceleration due to gravity in m/s² (default is 9.8 m/s²), and specific gravity of sediment (must be greater than 1). All values must be positive and valid.
Q1: What is turbulent settling?
A: Turbulent settling occurs when fluid flow around the settling particle is chaotic and irregular, typically at higher Reynolds numbers where inertial forces dominate over viscous forces.
Q2: Why is specific gravity important in this calculation?
A: Specific gravity accounts for the density difference between sediment particles and water, which directly affects the buoyancy and settling behavior of particles.
Q3: What are typical values for specific gravity of sediment?
A: Most natural sediments have specific gravity between 2.5-2.7 for mineral particles, while organic particles may have lower values closer to 1.
Q4: When is this formula most applicable?
A: This formula is designed for turbulent settling conditions, typically for larger particles or in high-energy fluid environments where flow is turbulent.
Q5: How accurate is this calculation method?
A: The formula provides a reasonable estimate for particle diameter under turbulent conditions, but actual results may vary based on particle shape, surface roughness, and other factors not accounted for in the formula.