Reynolds Number

Reynolds Number given by:

$$Re~=~\left({ {\rho~V~L}\over \mu}\right)$$ (5.11)

is the ratio of inertial force to viscous force. A large Reynolds number indicates that for the flow intertial forces dominate the viscous forces. A large Re also indicates that viscosity has an important effect in a restricted region around a body. A smaller Reynolds number means that the viscous forces are considerable in a large region around the body. We will be encountering Reynolds Number through out any study of fluid motion. Its additional significance will brought out as and when the need arises.

(c) Aerospace, Mechanical & Mechatronic Engg. 2005
University of Sydney