The boundary layer on a flat plate is called laminar boundary layer if...
Understanding the Laminar Boundary Layer
The laminar boundary layer on a flat plate is an essential concept in fluid mechanics, particularly in the study of flow behavior. The transition from laminar to turbulent flow is primarily governed by the Reynolds number (Re).
Reynolds Number Definition
- The Reynolds number is a dimensionless quantity used to predict flow patterns in different fluid flow situations. It is defined as the ratio of inertial forces to viscous forces and is calculated using the formula:
Re = (ρVD) / μ
Where:
- ρ = fluid density
- V = flow velocity
- D = characteristic length (e.g., plate length)
- μ = dynamic viscosity of the fluid
Criteria for Laminar Flow
- The flow over a flat plate is considered laminar when the Reynolds number is low. Specifically:
- Re < 5="" ×="" />: This threshold indicates that the flow remains predominantly laminar. Flow in this regime is smooth and orderly.
- Re < />: The generally accepted value for the onset of turbulence in many applications. Below this, the flow is typically stable and laminar.
- Re < />: This value marks the upper limit for transitional flow, where flow begins to fluctuate between laminar and turbulent states.
Correct Answer Explanation
- The correct answer is option C (Re < 5="" ×="" />, as it encompasses a broader range of laminar flow conditions. While Re < 2000="" signifies="" a="" strictly="" laminar="" flow,="" the="" range="" up="" to="" 5="" ×="" 10^5="" includes="" various="" practical="" applications="" before="" turbulence="" fully="" />
In summary, understanding the boundaries of laminar flow based on Reynolds number is crucial for engineers and designers when analyzing fluid behavior over surfaces.
The boundary layer on a flat plate is called laminar boundary layer if...
Reynold's number:
- It is a dimensionless number that determines the nature of the flow of liquid through a pipe or flat plate.
- It is defined as the ratio of the inertial force to the viscous force for a flowing fluid.
- Reynold's number is written as Re.

Flat plate flow:
- If Reynold's number lies below 5 × 105, then the flow of liquid is streamlined or laminar.
- If Reynold's number is greater than or equal to 5 × 105, the flow of liquid is turbulent.