Free Stream Velocity Of Flat Plate Laminar Flow Calculator

Formula Used:

\[ u_{\infty} = \frac{k_L \times (Sc^{0.67}) \times (Re^{0.5})}{0.322} \]

Free Stream Velocity (u_∞):

Unit Converter ▲

Unit Converter ▼

From:	To:

1. What is Free Stream Velocity?

Free Stream Velocity is defined as at some distance above the boundary the velocity reaches a constant value that is free stream velocity. In flat plate laminar flow, it represents the undisturbed fluid velocity far from the plate surface.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

\[ u_{\infty} = \frac{k_L \times (Sc^{0.67}) \times (Re^{0.5})}{0.322} \]

Where:

\( u_{\infty} \) — Free Stream Velocity (m/s)
\( k_L \) — Convective Mass Transfer Coefficient (m/s)
\( Sc \) — Schmidt Number (dimensionless)
\( Re \) — Reynolds Number (dimensionless)

Explanation: This formula relates free stream velocity to convective mass transfer coefficient, Schmidt number, and Reynolds number for flat plate laminar flow conditions.

3. Importance of Free Stream Velocity Calculation

Details: Calculating free stream velocity is crucial for analyzing fluid flow characteristics, boundary layer development, and mass transfer phenomena in various engineering applications involving flat plate configurations.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter convective mass transfer coefficient in m/s, Schmidt number (dimensionless), and Reynolds number (dimensionless). All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the significance of Schmidt number in this calculation?
A: Schmidt number represents the ratio of momentum diffusivity to mass diffusivity, indicating the relative thickness of momentum and concentration boundary layers.

Q2: How does Reynolds number affect free stream velocity?
A: Reynolds number characterizes the flow regime. Higher Reynolds numbers typically indicate higher free stream velocities for a given system configuration.

Q3: What are typical ranges for convective mass transfer coefficient?
A: Convective mass transfer coefficients typically range from 0.001 to 0.1 m/s for most engineering applications involving flat plates.

Q4: Are there limitations to this formula?
A: This formula is specifically valid for laminar flow over flat plates and may not be accurate for turbulent flow or complex geometries.

Q5: How does free stream velocity relate to boundary layer development?
A: Free stream velocity determines the driving force for boundary layer development and affects both velocity and concentration boundary layer thicknesses.