The term alternate depths in open channel flow is used to designate th...
For a given discharge Q in a channel, there will be two depths for a given specific energy. These two depths are known as alternate depths.
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The term alternate depths in open channel flow is used to designate th...
Explanation:
Alternate depths in open channel flow refer to the depths at which the specific energy of the flow is the same for a given discharge. This means that the sum of the depth and the velocity head at one depth is equal to the sum of the depth and the velocity head at the other depth.
Specific energy is defined as the energy per unit weight of the fluid, which is the sum of the pressure head, the velocity head, and the elevation head.
When the specific energy is the same for two different depths, the flow can alternate between these depths without any change in the total energy of the flow. This is known as alternate depths.
Alternate depths occur in gradually varied flow profiles where the water surface slope is gradual and the flow is steady. In such cases, the flow can be represented by the specific energy curve, which shows the variations in specific energy with respect to the water surface elevation.
Alternate depths are important in open channel flow analysis, as they determine the stability and behavior of the flow. They are also used in the design of hydraulic structures such as weirs, spillways, and channels.
In summary, alternate depths in open channel flow refer to the depths at which the specific energy of the flow is the same for a given discharge. They occur in gradually varied flow profiles and are important in the analysis and design of hydraulic structures.