Fluid Dynamics

Flow patterns can be characterized as laminar or turbulent. In laminar or streamlined flow, the fluid glides along in layers which do not mix so that the flow takes place in smooth continuous lines called streamlines. This is what we see when we open a water faucet just a little so that the flow is clear and regular. If we continue turning the faucet, the flow gradually becomes cloudy and irregular. This is known as turbulent flow. This change to turbulence takes place at high Reynolds numbers. The critical Reynolds number at which this change occurs differs from case to case.