1. What is the Speed of Stream Formula?

Definition: This calculator determines the speed of a water current based on boat speeds traveling downstream and upstream.

Purpose: It helps navigators, boaters, and hydrologists understand current speeds for safe navigation and water flow analysis.

2. How Does the Formula Work?

The formula used is:

Where:

• \( CS \) — Current speed (km/h)
• \( DS \) — Downstream speed (km/h)
• \( US \) — Upstream speed (km/h)

Explanation: The difference between downstream and upstream speeds represents twice the current speed (since current helps in one direction and hinders in the other).

3. Importance of Current Speed Calculation

Details: Knowing current speed helps in navigation safety, fuel efficiency calculations, and understanding water flow patterns.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter the boat's speed downstream and upstream in km/h. Downstream speed must be greater than upstream speed.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why divide by 2 in the formula?
A: The current adds to boat speed downstream and subtracts upstream, so the net difference represents twice the current speed.

Q2: What units should I use?
A: The calculator uses km/h, but the formula works with any consistent speed units (knots, mph, etc.).

Q3: What if upstream speed is greater than downstream?
A: This suggests an input error as current can't make you go faster upstream than downstream.

Q4: Does this account for wind or other factors?
A: No, this calculates only current speed. Wind effects would require additional measurements.

Q5: How accurate is this calculation?
A: It's mathematically precise if DS and US measurements are accurate under identical conditions.