The velocity profile is parabolic for what type of flow?

The velocity profile is parabolic for what type of flow?

• A. Turbulent
• B. Laminar
• C. Transitional
• D. Steady

Answer: (B)

Parabolic velocity profile is seen in fully developed laminar flow in a circular pipe. In this smooth, orderly regime, fluid moves in concentric layers with momentum diffusing by viscosity and without turbulent mixing. The wall enforces zero velocity (no-slip), while the centerline is the fastest, giving a velocity that varies with radius as v(r) = Vmax [1 − (r/R)²]. When you plot velocity versus radius, you get a parabola. Turbulent flow, with its chaotic mixing, tends to flatten the profile toward a more plug-like shape; transitional flow is in between, and steady refers to time behavior rather than the velocity shape.

Parabolic velocity profile is seen in fully developed laminar flow in a circular pipe. In this smooth, orderly regime, fluid moves in concentric layers with momentum diffusing by viscosity and without turbulent mixing. The wall enforces zero velocity (no-slip), while the centerline is the fastest, giving a velocity that varies with radius as v(r) = Vmax [1 − (r/R)²]. When you plot velocity versus radius, you get a parabola. Turbulent flow, with its chaotic mixing, tends to flatten the profile toward a more plug-like shape; transitional flow is in between, and steady refers to time behavior rather than the velocity shape.