A rectangular open channel of width 6.5 m is carrying a discharge of ...
The critical depth of an open channel
In fluid mechanics, the critical depth of an open channel is the depth at which the flow velocity is at its maximum for a given discharge. It is a significant parameter in the design and analysis of open channel flow.
Governing equation for critical depth
The critical depth can be determined using the Manning's equation:
V = (1/n) * R^(2/3) * S^(1/2)
Where:
- V is the flow velocity
- n is the Manning's roughness coefficient
- R is the hydraulic radius
- S is the slope of the energy grade line
Calculating the critical depth
To calculate the critical depth, we need to rearrange the Manning's equation in terms of depth.
V = (1/n) * R^(2/3) * S^(1/2)
V = (1/n) * (A/P)^(2/3) * S^(1/2)
V = (1/n) * (A^(2/3) * P^(-2/3)) * S^(1/2)
V = (1/n) * (A^(2/3) * (2A/H)^(2/3)) * S^(1/2)
V = (1/n) * (2A^(5/3) * H^(-2/3)) * S^(1/2)
V = (2/n) * (A^(5/3) * H^(-2/3)) * S^(1/2)
V = (2/n) * (Q/A) * H^(5/3) * A^(-2/3) * S^(1/2)
V = (2/n) * (Q/A) * H^(5/3) * (Q/A)^(-2/3) * S^(1/2)
V = (2/n) * (Q/A) * Q^(-2/3) * S^(1/2)
V = (2/n) * Q^(1/3) * A^(-2/3) * S^(1/2)
V = (2/n) * Q^(1/3) * (B * H) ^(-2/3) * S^(1/2)