Hydraulic Gradient Flow Rate

on . Posted in Fluid Dynamics

hydraulic gradient flow rateThe hydraulic gradient is a concept used in fluid mechanics and hydrogeology to describe the slope of the water table or piezometric surface in a confined or unconfined aquifer.  It represents the change in the height of the water table per unit of horizontal distance.  The hydraulic gradient is a critical factor in understanding groundwater flow.  It represents the potential energy of the fluid due to its elevation and pressure.

 

Hydraulic Gradient Flow Rate fromula

\( Q =  k \; i \; A_c  \)     (Hydraulic Gradient Flow Rate)

\( k =   Q \;/\; i \; A_c \)

\( i =   Q \;/\; k \; A_c  \)

\( A_c =   Q \;/\; k \; i \)

Symbol English Metric
\( Q \) = flow rate \(ft^3 \;/\; sec\) \(m^3 \;/\; s\)
\( k \) = hydraulic conductivity \(ft \;/\; day\) \(m \;/\; day\)
\( i \) = hydraulic gradient \(dimensionless\)   
\( A_c \) = area cross-section of flow \( in^2 \) \( mm^2 \)

 

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Tags: Pressure Hydraulic