1. What is Critical Velocity?

Definition: Critical velocity is the minimum velocity needed to maintain flow in a fluid system, calculated from distance and time measurements.

Purpose: It helps engineers and physicists determine the minimum speed required to prevent sedimentation in pipes or channels.

2. How Does the Formula Work?

The calculator uses the formula:

Where:

• \( CV \) — Critical velocity (meters/second)
• \( D2 \) — Longer distance measurement (meters)
• \( D1 \) — Shorter distance measurement (meters)
• \( T2 \) — Time taken for D2 (seconds)
• \( T1 \) — Time taken for D1 (seconds)

Explanation: The formula calculates the velocity required to overcome the difference in distances over the corresponding time difference.

3. Importance of Critical Velocity

Details: Proper critical velocity calculation ensures efficient fluid transport systems, prevents clogging, and optimizes energy usage.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter two different distance measurements and their corresponding times. All values must be > 0 and T2 cannot equal T1.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What's the difference between critical velocity and average velocity?
A: Critical velocity is the minimum required velocity, while average velocity is simply distance divided by time.

Q2: When would I need to calculate critical velocity?
A: When designing fluid transport systems, sewage systems, or any application where maintaining flow is crucial.

Q3: What units should I use?
A: The calculator uses meters for distance and seconds for time, resulting in m/s for velocity.

Q4: Can I use different units?
A: Yes, but convert all measurements to consistent units before calculation.

Q5: What if my time measurements are the same?
A: The calculator requires different time measurements (T2 ≠ T1) to avoid division by zero.