Reynolds number

noun

1. a dimensionless number, v ρ l /η, where v is the fluid velocity, ρ the density, η the viscosity and l a dimension of the system. The value of the number indicates the type of fluid flow

Word History and Origins

Origin of Reynolds number¹

C19: named after Osborne Reynolds (1842–1912), British physicist

Example Sentences

The degree of laminar or turbulent flow is referred to as the Reynolds number, which is inversely proportional to the viscosity.

From Science Daily

The Reynolds law of dynamic similarity or Reynolds similitude, states that if two fluids flow around similar structures with different length scales, they are hydrodynamically identical provided they exhibit the same Reynolds number.

From Science Daily

"Superfluids have long been considered an obvious exception to the Reynolds similitude," Dr. Takeuchi said, explaining that the Reynolds law of similitude states that if two flows have the same Reynolds number, then they are physically identical.

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In aerodynamics, the Reynolds number is a quantity that helps predict the flow pattern of fluids.

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However, the origins of the critical length scale, a crucial parameter in this method, and its dependence on the Reynolds number are not well understood.

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