Basic hydraulic principles of open-channel flow

Open-File Report 88-707
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Abstract

The three basic principles of open-channel-flow analysis--the conservation of mass, energy, and momentum--are derived, explained, and applied to solve problems of open-channel flow. These principles are introduced at a level that can be comprehended by a person with an understanding of the principles of physics and mechanics equivalent to that presented in the first college level course of the subject. The reader is assumed to have a working knowledge of algebra and plane geometry as well as some knowledge of calculus. Once the principles have been derived, a number of example applications are presented that illustrate the computation of flow through culverts and bridges, and over structures, such as dams and weirs. Because resistance to flow is a major obstacle to the successful application of the energy principle to open-channel flow, procedures are outlined for the rational selection of flow resistance coefficients. The principle of specific energy is shown to be useful in the prediction of water-surface profiles both in the qualitative and quantitative sense. (USGS)
Publication type Report
Publication Subtype USGS Numbered Series
Title Basic hydraulic principles of open-channel flow
Series title Open-File Report
Series number 88-707
DOI 10.3133/ofr88707
Edition -
Year Published 1988
Language ENGLISH
Publisher U.S. Geological Survey,
Description viii, 150 p. ill. ;28 cm.
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