1. What is the Radial Coordinate for 3D Source Flow?

The radial coordinate in 3D source flow represents the distance from the source point where fluid is emanating. It's a fundamental parameter in fluid dynamics that helps determine flow characteristics and velocity distribution around a source.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( r \) — Radial coordinate (m)
• \( \Lambda \) — Source strength (m²/s)
• \( V_r \) — Radial velocity (m/s)
• \( \pi \) — Archimedes' constant (≈3.14159)

Explanation: This formula calculates the radial distance from a 3D source where the radial velocity equals the specified value, based on the conservation of mass principle.

3. Importance of Radial Coordinate Calculation

Details: Calculating radial coordinates is essential for understanding fluid flow patterns, designing fluid systems, and analyzing velocity distributions in various engineering applications involving source flows.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter source strength in m²/s and radial velocity in m/s. Both values must be positive numbers greater than zero for valid calculation.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is source strength in fluid dynamics?
A: Source strength represents the volumetric flow rate per unit depth from a source, physically indicating how much fluid is emanating from the source point.

Q2: How does radial velocity affect the radial coordinate?
A: Higher radial velocities result in smaller radial coordinates for the same source strength, as the fluid is moving faster away from the source.

Q3: What are typical applications of 3D source flow calculations?
A: These calculations are used in aerodynamics, hydrodynamics, ventilation systems, and any application involving radial fluid flow from a point source.

Q4: Are there limitations to this formula?
A: This formula assumes ideal, incompressible flow and a perfect point source. Real-world applications may require adjustments for viscosity and other factors.

Q5: How does this relate to sink flow calculations?
A: Sink flow is the inverse of source flow, where fluid is converging toward a point rather than diverging from it, but similar mathematical principles apply.