Prandtl Number

The Prandtl Number is a dimensionless number used in fluid mechanics and heat transfer. It compares the rate of momentum diffusion to the rate of thermal diffusion in a fluid. Essentially, it helps determine how easily heat spreads through a fluid relative to how easily it flows. A low Prandtl Number means heat spreads quickly compared to flow (like in gases), while a high number indicates that heat transfer is slower (like in oils or thick liquids). Understanding this number helps engineers design systems for heating, cooling, and fluid movement more effectively.