Settling Velocity Given Specific Gravity Of Particle Calculator

Settling Velocity Given Specific Gravity Formula:

\[ V_{sg} = \sqrt{\frac{\frac{4}{3} \times g \times (G - 1) \times D_p}{C_D}} \]

Acceleration due to Gravity (g):

m/s²

Specific Gravity of Sediment (G):

(dimensionless)

Diameter of Particle (Dp):

Coefficient of Drag (CD):

(dimensionless)

Settling Velocity given Specific Gravity (Vsg):

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1. What is Settling Velocity given Specific Gravity?

Settling Velocity given Specific Gravity is the rate at which a particle settles in a fluid under the influence of gravity, accounting for the specific gravity of the sediment particle. It provides a measure of how quickly particles will settle out of suspension in a fluid medium.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Settling Velocity given Specific Gravity formula:

\[ V_{sg} = \sqrt{\frac{\frac{4}{3} \times g \times (G - 1) \times D_p}{C_D}} \]

Where:

\( V_{sg} \) — Settling Velocity given Specific Gravity (m/s)
\( g \) — Acceleration due to Gravity (m/s²)
\( G \) — Specific Gravity of Sediment (dimensionless)
\( D_p \) — Diameter of Particle (m)
\( C_D \) — Coefficient of Drag (dimensionless)

Explanation: The equation calculates the terminal settling velocity of a particle in a fluid, considering gravitational acceleration, particle properties (size and density relative to water), and fluid resistance through the drag coefficient.

3. Importance of Settling Velocity Calculation

Details: Accurate settling velocity calculation is crucial for sediment transport studies, water treatment processes, environmental engineering, and industrial applications where particle separation is required.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter acceleration due to gravity in m/s² (typically 9.8 m/s² on Earth), specific gravity of sediment (ratio of particle density to water density), particle diameter in meters, and drag coefficient. All values must be positive.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is the typical range for drag coefficient?
A: The drag coefficient varies with particle shape and flow conditions, typically ranging from 0.1 to 2.0 for spherical particles in different flow regimes.

Q2: How does specific gravity affect settling velocity?
A: Higher specific gravity (denser particles) results in faster settling velocities, as the gravitational force overcoming fluid drag is greater.

Q3: What assumptions are made in this formula?
A: The formula assumes spherical particles, steady-state conditions, and that the particle has reached terminal velocity in the fluid.

Q4: How does particle size affect settling velocity?
A: Larger particles generally settle faster due to greater mass, though the relationship is not linear and depends on the flow regime.

Q5: Can this formula be used for non-spherical particles?
A: The formula is most accurate for spherical particles. For non-spherical particles, shape factors and modified drag coefficients should be used.