Formula Used:
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Kinematic Viscosity is an atmospheric variable defined as the ratio between the dynamic viscosity μ and the density ρ of the fluid. It represents the fluid's resistance to flow under gravity and is crucial in fluid dynamics calculations.
The calculator uses the formula:
Where:
Explanation: This formula calculates the kinematic viscosity of water based on particle diameter, settling velocity, and Reynolds number, which is the ratio of inertial forces to viscous forces.
Details: Accurate kinematic viscosity calculation is essential for understanding fluid behavior, designing hydraulic systems, predicting particle settling rates, and analyzing flow characteristics in various engineering applications.
Tips: Enter particle diameter in meters, settling velocity in m/s, and Reynolds number. All values must be positive and valid for accurate results.
Q1: What is the difference between kinematic and dynamic viscosity?
A: Dynamic viscosity measures a fluid's resistance to flow under applied force, while kinematic viscosity is dynamic viscosity divided by density and relates to flow under gravity.
Q2: Why is Reynolds number important in this calculation?
A: Reynolds number indicates the flow regime (laminar or turbulent) and affects how particles settle in the fluid, making it crucial for accurate viscosity calculations.
Q3: What are typical values for kinematic viscosity of water?
A: At 20°C, the kinematic viscosity of water is approximately 1.004 × 10⁻⁶ m²/s, though it varies with temperature.
Q4: How does temperature affect kinematic viscosity?
A: Kinematic viscosity generally decreases as temperature increases for liquids, as molecular motion increases and internal friction decreases.
Q5: What applications require kinematic viscosity calculations?
A: Hydraulic system design, sediment transport studies, chemical processing, lubrication engineering, and environmental fluid dynamics all require kinematic viscosity calculations.