Froude number

The Froude number is a dimensionless value used in fluid dynamics to compare the flow's inertia (movement tendency) to the influence of gravity. It helps determine how an object or fluid moves in relation to waves and surface behavior. For example, in river engineering or ship design, a low Froude number indicates slow, smooth flow where gravity dominates, while a high Froude number suggests faster flow where inertia is more significant, often leading to wave formation or turbulent conditions. It’s a useful tool for predicting flow patterns and designing safe, efficient systems involving fluids.