Segment V4.3: Flow Types

(Related to Textbook Section 4.1.3 - Steady and Unsteady Flows)

Among the many ways that flows can be categorized are: a) steady or unsteady, b) laminar or turbulent. Which type of flow occurs for a given situation depends on numerous parameters that affect the flow.

The low speed flow of water from a small nozzle is steady and laminar. Unless the flow is disturbed (by poking it with a pencil, for example), it is not obvious that the fluid is moving. On the other hand, the flow within a clothes washer is highly unsteady and turbulent. Such motion is needed to produce the desired cleaning action.