Reynolds number calculation for undergraduate

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the calculation of the Reynolds number at a specific location along the chord length of an aircraft wing under various velocities, using assumptions based on International Standard Atmosphere (ISA) conditions. The context includes a request for step-by-step guidance on the calculation, which is framed as a homework problem.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Mathematical reasoning

Main Points Raised

  • One participant requests a step-by-step calculation of the Reynolds number at a specific location along an aircraft wing for various velocities.
  • Another participant emphasizes the need to show work and attempts at a solution as part of the homework guidelines.
  • A participant expresses interest in sharing their calculations and seeks confirmation on whether this is acceptable.
  • A later reply provides a detailed calculation of the Reynolds number for the specified velocities, including conversions from knots to meters per second and the application of the formula R= ρux/μ.
  • Another participant reviews the calculations, suggesting a correction in the first Reynolds number value and introduces an alternative formula for calculating Reynolds number that includes kinematic viscosity.
  • A participant inquires about whether to continue the discussion regarding boundary layer conditions in the same thread or start a new one.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants generally agree on the need to show work for homework questions, but there is no consensus on the correctness of the calculations provided, as one participant suggests a correction. The discussion on boundary layer conditions remains unresolved.

Contextual Notes

Participants rely on specific assumptions regarding atmospheric conditions and the definitions of variables such as kinematic viscosity. There are unresolved details regarding the accuracy of the Reynolds number calculations and the implications for boundary layer conditions.

Who May Find This Useful

Students studying fluid dynamics, particularly those interested in applications related to aerodynamics and aircraft design.

ra180
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Calculate the Reynolds number at a location χ= 0.3m along the chord length of an aircraft wing at each of the following velocities;u= 20,40,60,80 and 100 knots. Assume International Standard Atmosphere (ISA) conditions for pressure and temperature. Take; R =287 J/KG;μ= 18 X10 -6 Kg/m s; 1 knot = 0.869 1mph= 1.61km/h

If someone could answer this in a step by step manor that would help me greatly. (I have been offered a retake for a mitigating circumstance at my University)
 
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As this reads as a homework question, as per the rules, you have to provide your work and attempt at a solution along with any figures or tables accompanying the question. Even if it isn't, if you want to learn the material, try it first then you'll find help here.
 
Thanks Travis can i post photos of calculations i have tried?
 
Of course you can do that, and we encourage you to do that.
 
Sorry guys I have been really busy here is my answer.

Assuming ISA P= 101325pa ,R= 287 J/kgk and T=288.15K

Convert knots into meters per second

(1) 20 knots= 10.29/ms, 40 knots =20.58m/s 60 knots= 30.87 m/s 100 knots =51.44 m/s

(2) Using the formula R= ρux/μ where (ρ= P/RT) (u= velocity in m/s-1) (x=0.3) and (μ= 18 x10-6)

(3) Final answer at 20 knots Reynolds number = 210088, 40 knots = 420175, 60 knots = 630263, 80 knots = 8402350, 100 knots = 1050233
 
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Looks good to me, looking at the 20 knot answer. Note also that sometimes the Reynolds number over an airfoil will read as R=V*Xc / v where Xc is the location along the chord length and v is the kinematic viscosity, which is equal to μ/ρ.

Edit: though I think you have an extra 0 in the first one, that should be 210087.

What does this tell you about the boundary layer conditions at these locations?
 
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Would you believe that is the next question should I start a new thread or continue posting here?
 
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