Hydraulic Mean Depth (Hydraulic Radius) — Full Circular Pipe For a circular pipe of diameter d flowing full, the hydraulic mean depth R = A/P equals:

Difficulty: Easy

Correct Answer: d/4

Explanation:


Introduction:
The hydraulic mean depth (hydraulic radius) R = A/P is a key parameter in flow formulas such as Chezy and Manning. For common sections, closed-form expressions exist, simplifying design checks.


Given Data / Assumptions:

  • Circular conduit of diameter d flowing full.
  • Area A = (pid^2)/4, Wetted perimeter P = pid.
  • Steady uniform flow conceptually.


Concept / Approach:
Apply the definition R = A/P directly to the circular section values.


Step-by-Step Solution:
Compute A = (pid^2)/4.Compute P = pid.Then R = A/P = [(pid^2)/4]/(pid) = d/4.


Verification / Alternative check:
Dimensional check: R has dimensions of length; d/4 has length, consistent. Known tables list R = d/4 for a full circular pipe, confirming.


Why Other Options Are Wrong:
d/6 and d/2 and d are not obtained from A/P for the full circular case; they may appear in other hydraulic relations (e.g., depth to centroid), but not R.


Common Pitfalls:
Confusing hydraulic radius with radius of the pipe; using diameter in place of wetted perimeter for partially full conditions; mixing up A/P with perimeter/area.


Final Answer:
d/4

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