laminar flow

views updated May 21 2018

laminar flow A type of flow (normally in water) that is characterized by the movement of fluid particles parallel to each other, with no transverse movement or mixing. Velocity increases steadily away from the bed. Laminar flow in channels is found only at low velocities and adjacent to smooth surfaces. It is almost ubiquitous in soil moisture and groundwater (except in karstic aquifers).

laminar flow

views updated May 08 2018

laminar flow Type of flow (normally in water) characterized by the movement of fluid particles parallel to each other, with no transverse movement or mixing. Velocity increases steadily away from the bed. Laminar flow in channels is found only at low velocities and adjacent to smooth surfaces. It is almost ubiquitous in soil moisture and groundwater (except in karstic aquifers).