Fluid dynamics: Reynolds Number, Drag Constant

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on the application of the Reynolds number and drag constant in fluid dynamics, specifically addressing two queries related to dynamic viscosity calculations and the relationship between Reynolds number and drag constant. The Reynolds number, calculated using the formula (density of fluid x diameter of sphere x velocity)/viscosity, cannot simply substitute different velocities without affecting the outcome due to its dependence on both viscosity and velocity. Additionally, the Reynolds number can be derived from the drag constant using graphical methods or interpolation from tables, emphasizing the need for accurate data representation.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of fluid dynamics principles
  • Familiarity with Reynolds number calculations
  • Knowledge of drag force equations
  • Ability to interpret and utilize fluid property tables
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the relationship between drag coefficient (Cd) and Reynolds number in fluid dynamics
  • Learn about dynamic viscosity and its role in fluid mechanics
  • Explore methods for plotting and interpreting log-log graphs in fluid dynamics
  • Investigate interpolation techniques for fluid property tables
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Students and professionals in engineering, particularly those specializing in fluid dynamics, mechanical engineering, and anyone involved in calculating drag forces and analyzing fluid behavior in various applications.

AwfulPhysicist
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I completed 4a successfully, and with 4b, i have 2 queries:
a)why can't I let Reynolds # equal to 2.19 x 10^5 (from part a) then simply sub v=4 instead of 5m/s and rearrange for viscosity? I tried it this way first and got a very wrong answer. Why do we, essentially, need to work backwards to get the dynamic viscosity?
b)How do they find the reynolds number from the drag constant? I know they used the table but how?

Below is proof of my workings, and i have screen shotted the question and the answer workings as well.


Relevant equations are

F (drag)= drag constant (Cd) x pi/4 x d^2 x density fluid x velocity^2 x 1/2

Reynolds number= (density of fluid x diameter of spehere x velocity)/viscosity

F (drag) = Weight- Buoyancy
= pi/6 x d^3 x gravity x (density of sphere-density of fluid)


kinematic viscosity= dynamic viscoity/ density
 

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AwfulPhysicist said:
I completed 4a successfully, and with 4b, i have 2 queries:
a)why can't I let Reynolds # equal to 2.19 x 10^5 (from part a) then simply sub v=4 instead of 5m/s and rearrange for viscosity?
I tried it this way first and got a very wrong answer. Why do we, essentially, need to work backwards to get the dynamic viscosity?

Because the velocity also appears in the ##\rho v^2/2## term. So here, it does not appear in combination with the dynamic viscosity.
b)How do they find the reynolds number from the drag constant? I know they used the table but how?

You either plot the relationship on a graph, and use the graph (preferrably a log-log plot) to get the reynolds number, or you interpolate (preferrably logarithmically) in the table.

Chet
 
Thanks Chet, I also realized that Reynolds number will not be the same due to a variation in the drag constant. So we cannot use the same Reynolds number as the first part
 

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