Reynolds number for a ship: dependence on velocity and length For a ship moving in water, consider Reynolds number Re = (V × L) / ν, where V is velocity, L is a characteristic length and ν is kinematic viscosity. Complete the statement about how Re varies with the ship's velocity and length.
Mechanical Engineering
Hydraulics and Fluid Mechanics
Difficulty: Easy
Choose an option
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AProportional to both velocity and length
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BInversely proportional to both velocity and length
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CIndependent of velocity but proportional to length
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DProportional to velocity but independent of length
Answer
Correct Answer: Proportional to both velocity and length
Explanation
Concept/Approach
- Reynolds number in external flows is Re = V L / ν. Holding ν fixed (same fluid and temperature), Re increases linearly with both V and L.
Final AnswerProportional to both velocity and length