Equivalent single pipe for a compound pipe Two pipes are said to be hydraulically equivalent when replacing a compound line by one new pipe. Choose the correct equivalence condition.
-
Alength of both the pipes is same
-
Bdiameter of both the pipes is same
-
Closs of head and discharge of both the pipes is same
-
Dloss of head and velocity of flow in both the pipes is same
-
Esame Reynolds number in both cases
Answer
Correct Answer: loss of head and discharge of both the pipes is same
Explanation
Introduction:Pipeline design often replaces a series (compound) system with a single “equivalent” pipe for easier analysis. This question asks you to recall the precise criteria that define equivalence for head loss and flow rate.
Given Data / Assumptions:
- Incompressible, steady flow.
- Same fluid in both configurations.
- Minor losses may be either included in the head loss accounting or neglected consistently.
Concept / Approach:An equivalent pipe must transport the same discharge Q under the same total head loss H between the same endpoints as the original compound system. Matching Q ensures throughput equivalence; matching H ensures the same driving energy requirement. Length and diameter individually need not match; they adjust to meet the H–Q condition via friction relations (e.g., Darcy–Weisbach or Hazen–Williams).
Step-by-Step Solution:
1) Identify target variables to preserve: discharge Q and head loss H.2) Use a friction relation (e.g., H = f * (L/D) * (V^2 / (2g))) to select the equivalent L and D that yield the same H at the same Q.3) Conclude that equivalence means same head loss and same discharge.Verification / Alternative check:Hydraulic-grade line across endpoints remains unchanged if H and Q match, confirming energy and capacity equivalence.
Why Other Options Are Wrong:
- Same length or diameter: not necessary individually.
- Same head loss and velocity: equal velocity does not guarantee equal Q unless diameters also match.
- Same Reynolds number: not required and may differ because D and V can change.
Common Pitfalls:Over-focusing on geometric sameness rather than hydraulic performance (H–Q) equivalence.
Final Answer:loss of head and discharge of both the pipes is same