Reynolds Number Flow Visualizer
Interactive visualization of laminar vs turbulent flow patterns
About this Simulator
Watch how fluid particles behave differently in laminar vs turbulent flow! This interactive simulator shows particles moving through a pipe - observe smooth, organized layers in laminar flow and chaotic mixing in turbulent flow. The velocity profile shows how flow speed varies from the wall to the center.
Physics & Formulas
Reynolds Number:
$$Re = \frac{\rho v D}{\mu} = \frac{v D}{\nu}$$
Where: ρ = density, v = velocity, D = diameter, μ = dynamic viscosity, ν = kinematic viscosity
How to Use
- Click Start/Pause to begin the particle animation
- Increase Flow Velocity to see particles speed up and transition to turbulent flow
- Adjust Pipe Diameter - larger pipes allow higher velocities before turbulence
- Change Fluid Density and Viscosity to simulate different fluids
- Toggle Velocity Profile to see the parabolic (laminar) vs flat (turbulent) profile
- Enable Streamlines to visualize flow paths
- Watch the Reynolds scale indicator show current flow regime
Frequently Asked Questions
What do the Reynolds number ranges mean?
For pipe flow: Re < 2,300 is laminar (smooth, predictable), 2,300 < Re < 4,000 is transitional (unstable), and Re > 4,000 is turbulent (chaotic mixing). For external flow over plates, transition typically occurs around Re = 500,000.
Why is Reynolds number important?
Reynolds number determines pressure drop, heat transfer coefficients, and mixing characteristics. It's essential for sizing pumps, designing heat exchangers, and predicting fluid behavior in engineering applications.
What is kinematic viscosity?
Kinematic viscosity (ν) equals dynamic viscosity (μ) divided by density (ρ). It represents the fluid's resistance to flow under gravity. Common values: water at 20°C ≈ 1×10⁻⁶ m²/s, air at 20°C ≈ 1.5×10⁻⁵ m²/s.
