Chezy application to a full circular sewer: In Chezy’s relation V = C √(R * S) for a circular sewer of diameter D running full, the hydraulic mean radius R equals:

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: D/4

Explanation:


Introduction / Context:
The hydraulic mean radius R (also called hydraulic radius) is A/P, where A is the cross-sectional area of flow and P is the wetted perimeter. It is fundamental in Chezy and Manning equations used for sewer design.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Circular sewer of diameter D is flowing full.
  • Chezy formulation uses R = A / P.
  • Standard geometry of a circle applies.


Concept / Approach:
For a full circular pipe, calculate A and P, then form their ratio to obtain R. This value is constant for full-flowing circular sections and is frequently used in uniform flow calculations.


Step-by-Step Solution:
Area, A = π D^2 / 4Wetted perimeter, P = π DHydraulic radius, R = A / P = (π D^2 / 4) / (π D) = D / 4


Verification / Alternative check:
Dimensional reasoning confirms that R must scale with length, and D/4 is consistent with known results for a full circular conduit.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:
D and D/2: overestimate R; ratio A/P does not support such large values.D/8 and D/16: underestimate R; computation shows D/4 exactly.


Common Pitfalls:

  • Using hydraulic diameter (4A/P) instead of hydraulic radius (A/P).
  • Confusing part-full and full-flow geometry; R varies with depth for part-full flow.


Final Answer:
D/4

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