1. What is Top Width For Parabola?

Top Width is defined as the width at the top of the section in a parabolic channel. It's an important parameter in hydraulic engineering for calculating flow characteristics in open channels with parabolic cross-sections.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Top Width formula:

Where:

• \( T \) — Top Width (m)
• \( A_{Para} \) — Wetted Surface Area of Parabola (m²)
• \( d_f \) — Depth of Flow (m)

Explanation: The formula calculates the top width of a parabolic channel based on the wetted surface area and depth of flow.

3. Importance of Top Width Calculation

Details: Accurate top width calculation is crucial for hydraulic engineering, flood management, irrigation system design, and determining flow characteristics in parabolic channels.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter wetted surface area in m² and depth of flow in m. Both values must be positive numbers greater than zero.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a parabolic channel?
A: A parabolic channel has a cross-section that follows a parabolic curve, often used in hydraulic engineering for efficient water flow.

Q2: How is wetted surface area different from cross-sectional area?
A: Wetted surface area refers to the area in contact with water, while cross-sectional area includes the entire channel section.

Q3: When is this formula most applicable?
A: This formula is specifically designed for parabolic channel sections and may not be accurate for other channel shapes.

Q4: What are typical values for top width in practical applications?
A: Top width varies greatly depending on the channel size and purpose, ranging from less than a meter in small irrigation channels to many meters in large flood control channels.

Q5: How does depth of flow affect top width?
A: In a parabolic channel, top width increases with depth of flow, but the relationship is not linear due to the parabolic shape.