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Critical Depth Calculator

Compute the critical depth y_c of open-channel flow (minimum specific energy).

Input Data

Unit Discharge
m²/s

Results

0.4671m

At a glance:y_c = (q²/g)^(1/3); at critical flow Fr=1. Complements hydraulic-radius and froude-number.

Formula

y_c = (q² / g)^(1/3).

$$y_c = \left(\dfrac{q^2}{g}\right)^{1/3}$$

How to Use

  1. Enter unit discharge and g.
  2. The tool returns critical depth and velocity.

Case Studies

q=2, g=9.8

y_c ≈ 0.742 m.

FAQ

Critical means?

Specific energy is minimum for the given discharge.

Related Tools

References

Content review: Calculatorism Science Team. Results are for reference only; please refer to the relevant authorities for the official figures.

Found a problem with the results?

If this calculator's result is wrong, or you have any question about the calculation logic, please let us know. You are viewing:Critical Depth Calculator(/physics/critical-depth)。