mini study guide (reynolds number) Flashcards
what is reynolds number allow?
the prediction of the type of flow that will occur in a given situation, it is only a number and no units
what is the equation for reynolds number?
density x diameter x velocity /viscosity
name the three types of flow?
laminar
turbulent
transitional
laminar flow is dependent on? what law applies?
gas viscosity
poiseuille
what is the number signifying laminar flow?
Reynolds number less than 2000
in laminar flow, all molecules travel in a _______ pattern.
parallel
due to cohesive forces, in laminar flow the molecules located where, travel at the fastest rate? slowest rate?why?
the molecules in the center of the tube travel at the fastest rate, while the molecules near the walls of the tube travel at the slowest rate, because of friction with the walls of the tube
what two places in the human body would you find laminar flow?
airflow in the terminal bronchioles
blood flow in the systemic circulation
turbulent flow is dependent on ? what law applies?
gas density
Graham
what reynolds number is associated with turbulent flow?
greater than 4,000
with turbulent flow all molecules travel in a _____ pattern
chaotic
turbulent flow tends to be produced by a what four things?
orifices (narrowing of diameter)
high gas flow
acute angle in the tube > 25 degrees
branching in the tube
where can you find turbulent flow in the human body?
glottis
trachea
annular space with high gas flows
airflow through medium sized bronchi
because turbulent flow is primarily dependent on gas density, how could you improve flow for the patient?
inhale lower density gas such as : heliox (helium/oxygen),
- useful with epiglottitis
helium does not improve flow if the flow pattern is ?
laminar
