Fluid acceleration down inclined channel – unsteady?

In summary, the conversation discusses whether a fluid accelerating down an inclined channel can satisfy the continuity equation and if the flow is unsteady. The conclusion is that the flow would not be steady in an accelerated reference frame due to different parts of the fluid moving at different velocities.
  • #1
humphreybogart
22
1
1. Can a fluid which is accelerating down an inclined channel with constant acceleration still satisfy the continuity equation for a constant-density fluid?

Since the acceleration will be down the slope, in the streamwise direction, then surely ∇⋅U > 0?

2. Assuming that continuity is satisfied above, then is the flow unsteady?

I can't seem to agree with my textbook that it is, since I imagine if you used an accelerating reference frame (with acceleration equal to that of the accelerating fluid), then the flow would be steady. Am I misunderstanding something?
 
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  • #2
If the cross sectional area of the flow decreases.

This flow would not be steady in the accelerated frame because different parts of the fluid move at different velocities and so fluid would flow away from you if you follow a stream line.
 

FAQ: Fluid acceleration down inclined channel – unsteady?

1. What is fluid acceleration down an inclined channel?

Fluid acceleration down an inclined channel refers to the change in velocity of a fluid as it flows down a channel that is angled or inclined. This acceleration is caused by the force of gravity acting on the fluid.

2. How is fluid acceleration down an inclined channel calculated?

The acceleration of a fluid down an inclined channel can be calculated using the equation a = g sinθ, where a is the acceleration, g is the acceleration due to gravity, and θ is the angle of inclination.

3. What is the difference between steady and unsteady fluid acceleration down an inclined channel?

In steady fluid acceleration, the velocity and acceleration of the fluid remain constant over time. In unsteady fluid acceleration, the velocity and acceleration of the fluid change over time, often due to changes in the channel geometry or flow rate.

4. How does the angle of inclination affect fluid acceleration down an inclined channel?

The angle of inclination directly affects the acceleration of the fluid down the channel. A steeper angle will result in a higher acceleration, while a shallower angle will result in a lower acceleration.

5. What are some real-world applications of fluid acceleration down an inclined channel?

Understanding fluid acceleration down an inclined channel is important for various engineering and scientific applications, such as designing efficient water channels for irrigation systems, predicting the flow of fluids in pipelines, and studying the behavior of fluids in natural phenomena like rivers and waterfalls.

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