Segment V4.1: Velocity Field

(Related to Textbook Section 4.1 - The Velocity Field)

A field representation is often used to describe flows. In doing so, the flow parameters are specified as functions of the spatial coordinates and time. The velocity field describes a flow by giving the point-bypoint fluid velocity throughout the flow field.

The calculated velocity field in a shipping channel is shown as the tide comes in and goes out. The fluid speed is given by the length and color of the arrows. The instantaneous flow direction is indicated by the direction that the velocity arrows point. (Video courtesy of Danish Hydraulic Institute.)