Reynold Number: ρvD/μ or ρvR/μ?

  • Thread starter Thread starter fonseh
  • Start date Start date
Click For Summary

Homework Help Overview

The discussion revolves around the definition of the Reynolds number in fluid mechanics, specifically the use of different terms such as diameter (D) and hydraulic radius (R) in its formulation. Participants are exploring the implications of these definitions in various contexts.

Discussion Character

  • Conceptual clarification, Assumption checking, Mixed

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants express confusion over the correct formulation of the Reynolds number, questioning whether it should be expressed as ρvD / μ or ρvR / μ. Some participants attempt to clarify the terms used and their relevance in different scenarios.

Discussion Status

The discussion is active, with participants sharing their perspectives on the definitions and their applications. Some guidance is provided regarding the context in which each formulation may be appropriate, but no consensus has been reached on a singular correct definition.

Contextual Notes

There is mention of the need to specify which definition is being used in problems, particularly in relation to the laminar-turbulent transition points associated with each formulation. Participants also note the potential confusion arising from the terminology used in different educational materials.

fonseh
Messages
521
Reaction score
2

Homework Statement


https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reynolds_number#Flow_in_a_pipe

In this link , i was told that Reynold number = ρvD / μ ,

However in the notes below , i was told that Reynold number = ρvR / μ .


Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


I think Reynold number = ρvR / μ is wrong , because i learned that Reynold number = ρvD / μ in fluid mechanics , however , in the hydraulics notes , i was told that that Reynold number = ρvR / μ . I'm very confused now
 

Attachments

  • 585.PNG
    585.PNG
    42 KB · Views: 1,213
Physics news on Phys.org
I agree. The characteristic length is the hydraulic diameter and it is confusing to use the term "hydraulic radius".
 
  • Like
Likes   Reactions: fonseh
fonseh said:

Homework Statement


https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reynolds_number#Flow_in_a_pipe

In this link , i was told that Reynold number = ρvD / μ ,

However in the notes below , i was told that Reynold number = ρvR / μ .


Homework Equations

The Attempt at a Solution


I think Reynold number = ρvR / μ is wrong , because i learned that Reynold number = ρvD / μ in fluid mechanics , however , in the hydraulics notes , i was told that that Reynold number = ρvR / μ . I'm very confused now
It doesn't really matter, as long as the meaning is established within the context of the system being analyzed. Anyway, it's Reynolds number, not Reynold number.
 
BvU said:
I agree. The characteristic length is the hydraulic diameter and it is confusing to use the term "hydraulic radius".
So , which is correct ? ρvD / μ or ρvR / μ ??
 
BvU said:
I agree. The characteristic length is the hydraulic diameter and it is confusing to use the term "hydraulic radius".
So , do you mean ρvD / μ is correct ? and ρvR / μ is wrong ?
 
fonseh said:
So , do you mean ρvD / μ is correct ? and ρvR / μ is wrong ?
Both are correct, depending on how it is used.
 
Chestermiller said:
Both are correct, depending on how it is used.
Can you explain further when we need to use ρvD / μ or ρvR / μ ?
 
fonseh said:
Can you explain further when we need to use ρvD / μ or ρvR / μ ?
In a given problem, you just need to specify which definition is being used. For example, the laminar-turbulent transition occurs at ##\rho v D/\mu=2100## for flow in a pipe, but it also occurs at ##\rho v R/\mu=1050##. So you have to tell which definition of the Re you are using.
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 13 ·
Replies
13
Views
2K
Replies
1
Views
3K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
2K
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 4 ·
Replies
4
Views
12K
Replies
4
Views
5K
Replies
14
Views
6K
Replies
4
Views
2K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
1K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
4K