Which term best describes flow that is smooth and orderly and contrasts with turbulent flow?

Which term best describes flow that is smooth and orderly and contrasts with turbulent flow?

• A. Laminar
• B. Pulsatile
• C. Turbulent
• D. Disturbed flow

Answer: (A)

Smooth, orderly flow is described as laminar flow. In laminar flow the fluid moves in parallel, nonmixing layers with a predictable velocity profile, which contrasts with turbulent flow that is chaotic and contains eddies and vortices. Pulsatile flow describes a time-varying flow rate (like with the heartbeat) and doesn’t inherently define smoothness; it can be laminar or turbulent. Disturbed flow refers to irregular flow often caused by obstacles or stenosis and is more about flow disruption than the steady, orderly pattern of laminar flow. So the term that best describes smooth and orderly flow is laminar.

Smooth, orderly flow is described as laminar flow. In laminar flow the fluid moves in parallel, nonmixing layers with a predictable velocity profile, which contrasts with turbulent flow that is chaotic and contains eddies and vortices. Pulsatile flow describes a time-varying flow rate (like with the heartbeat) and doesn’t inherently define smoothness; it can be laminar or turbulent. Disturbed flow refers to irregular flow often caused by obstacles or stenosis and is more about flow disruption than the steady, orderly pattern of laminar flow. So the term that best describes smooth and orderly flow is laminar.