Chapter 1

Uniform Flow
Solution: (b)
One-mark Questions qf : Discharge at the stage when water surface is
falling.
1. A circular pipe has a diameter of 1 m, bed slope qr: Discharge at the same stage when water surface
of 1 in 1000, and Manning’s roughness coefficient is rising.
equal to 0.01. It may be treated as an open channel
flow when it is flowing just full, i.e., the water level On rising stages the water surface slope is sig-
just touches the crest. The discharge in this con- nificantly steeper than for steady flow conditions,
dition is denoted by Qfull. Similarly, the discharge resulting ingreater discharge than indicated by the
when the pipe is flowing half-full, i.e., with a flow steady flow rating. The reverse is true for falling
depth of 0.5 m, is denoted by Qhalf. The ratio Qfull / stages. Therefore, qf < qr
Qhalf is: [2015]
(a) 1 (b) 2
Steady flow
(c) 2 (d) 4 rating curve
g
llin
Solution: (c) Fa
Vmax CR2/3 S1/2
Depth of flow

Hydraulic mean depth of both flows = area

∴ Vfull = Vhalf = V Dynamic or
Rising
Q=A×V looped rating
curve
Qfull A ×V
= full =2
Qhalf Ahalf × V O
Flow rate
Hence, the correct option is (c). Discharge rating curve
2. The stage-discharge relation in a river during the
passage of flood is measured. If qf is the discharge Hence, the correct option is (b).
at the stage when water surface is falling and qr is
3. A trapezoidal channel with bottom width of 3 m
the discharge at the same stage when water surface
and side slope of IV:1.5 H carries a discharge
is rising, then [2001]
of 8.0 m3/sec with the flow depth of 1.5 m. The
(a) qf = qr
Froude number of the flow is [2001]
(b) qf < qr
(a) 0.066
(c) qf > qr
(b) 0.132
q
(d) f constant for all stages (c) 0.265
qr (d) 0.528

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 7.4 | Open-Channel Hydraulics

Solution: (c) Q 10
Flow rate per m width: =
q = = 3.333 m3 /s/m
B 3
1/ 3
 (3.333) 2 
1
yc =   = 1.4 m
 9.81 
1.5 Hence, the correct option is (d).
B=3m 5. The number of revolutions of a current meter in
50 seconds was found to be 12 and 30 correspond-
Bottom width: B = 3 m ing to the velocities of 0.25 m/s and 0.49 m/s,
Side slope = 1 V : 1.5 H, z = 1.5 ­respectively. What velocity (in m/s) would be indi-
Discharge: Q = 8 m3/sec cated by 50 revolutions of that current metre in one
Depth of flow: y = 1.5 m ­minute? [1999]
V (a) 0.42 (b) 0.50
Froude number: Fr =
gD (c) 0.60 (d) 0.73
Cross sectional area of channel section, A = (B + Solution: (c)
zy)y =(3 + 1.5 × 1.5)1.5 = 7.875 m2 The velocity indicated in current metre, V = aN + b
Velocity of flow: V = Q/A N: Number of revolutions per second
t = 50 sec N1 = 12 V1 = 0.25 m/sec
8
= = 1.015 m/s N1 = 30 V1 = 0.49 m/sec
7.875
12
0.25 = a. + b ⇒ 12a + 50b = 12.5
Top width: T = B + 2 zy 50
= 3 + 2 × 1.5 × 1.5 = 7.5 m 30
Hydraulic depth: D = A/T 0.49 = a. + b ⇒ 30 a + 50b = 24.5
50
V 18a = 12 ⇒ a = 0.667, b = 0.09
=Fr = 1.05 m
g .D
When, t = 60 sec N1 50 V1 = ?
V 1.015 50
Fr = = = 0.316 V = 0.667 × + 0.09 = 0.645 m/s
g .D 9.81× 1.05 60
There is no answer in the given question Hence, the correct option is (c).

1.015 6. In a river, discharge is 173 m3/s; water surface

If D ≈ y = 1.5 m; Fr = = 0.265 slope is 1 in 6000; and stage at the gauge station
9.81× 1.5
is 10.0 m. If during a flood, the stage at the gauge
Hence, the correct option is (c). station is same and the water surface slope is 1 in
2000, the flood discharge in m3/s, is approximately
4. Water flows at a rate of 10 m3/s in a rectangular
 [1999]
channel 3 m wide. The critical depth of flow is
(a) 371 (b) 100
 [2000]
(c) 519 (d) 300
(a) 1.13 m (b) 2 m
(c) 1.45 m (d) 1.04 m Solution: (d)
Solution: (d) Discharge in a river: Q1 = 173 m3/s
Flow rate: Q = 10 m3/s Water surface slope: Sf = 1 : 6000
1
Type of channel: Rectangular Stage at the gauge section = 10 m
Width of channel: B = 3 m Discharge in a river: Q2 = 173 m3/s
1/ 3
Water surface slope: Sf = 1 : 2000
2
 q2  1
y =
Critical depth: c   The discharge in a river: Q = A R 2 / 3 S 1/ 2
 g  n

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 Chapter 1 Uniform Flow | 7.5

For the same gauge section, Q ∝ S 1/ 2 In an open-channel, for a given discharge, the criti-
1/ 2 cal depth takes place when the specific energy is
Q2  S f2  minimum. For specific energy other than mini-
= 
Q1  S f1  mum, there will be two depths of flow, which are
1/ 2
known as conjugate depths.
Q2  6000  Hence, the correct option is (b).
= ⇒ Q2 = 300 m3 /sec
173  2000  9. A section in open channel at which a fixed relation-
Hence, the correct option is (d). ship exists between the discharge and the depth of
7. For a “best” symmetrical trapezoidal section of an flow is called as a section [1995]
open channel with a given area of section and side Solution: Prismatic
slopes, one of the following statements holds true: A prismatic section is a section in open channel at
 [1997] which a fixed relationship exists between the dis-
(a) Half the top width is equal to one of the side charge and the depth of flow.
slope. 10. Water flows in a rectangular channel at a depth of
(b) Half the top width plus the bottom width is 1.20 m and a velocity of 2.4 m/s. A local rise in the
equal to both the side slopes put together. bed of 0.60 m will cause [1993]
(c) Water depth is equal to half bottom width. (a) the surface to rise.
(d) Hydraulic mean depth is equal to half the top (b) the surface to fall.
width. (c) a stationary jump to form.
Solution: (a) (d) a surge to travel upstream.
The condition for a best symmetrical trapezoidal Solution: (b)
section of an open channel with a given area of Depth of flow: y = 1.2 m
section and side slopes is half the top width is Velocity of flow: V = 2.4 m/s
equal to one of the side slope. Rise of local bed = 0.6 m
Hence, the correct option is (a).
Energy line
8. Flow at critical depth takes place in an open chan-
nel when [1996]
(a) for a given specific energy, discharge is maxi- E2
E1 y1
mum. yc y2
(b) for a given discharge, specific energy is mini-
Hump Δz
mum.
(c) discharge is minimum for a given specific force. 1 2
(d) discharge is maximum for a given specific force. Channel transition with a hump

Solution: (b) Flow rate: q = Vy

S = 2.4 × 1.2 = 2.88 m3/s/m
1/ 3
P1 Q1 = Q2
 q2 
Critical depth: yc =  
Subcritical  g 
R2
Depth

1/ 3
 2.88 
yc =   = 0.66 m
 9.81 
yc
C R1 Supercitical Since, y > yc, the flow in subcritical by providing
45° smooth hump of Dz = 0.6 m on the floor causes the
O P specific energy decreases by Dz = 0.6 m.
EC
E1 If the flow in subcritical, the water surface will fall
Specific energy
due to a decrease in the specific energy.
Variation of specific energy with depth Hence, the correct option is (b).

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 7.6 | Open-Channel Hydraulics

2. A 3 m wide rectangular channel carries a flow of

Two-marks Questions 6 m3/s. The depth of flow at a section P is 0.5 m.
A flat-topped hump is to be placed at the down-
1. A 4 m wide rectangular channel, having bed stream of the section P. Assume negligible energy
slope of 0.001 carries a discharge of 16 m3/s. loss between section P and hump, and consider g
Considering Manning’s roughness coefficient = as 9.81 m/s2. The maximum height of the hump
0.012 and g = 10 m/s2, the category of the channel (expressed in m), which will not change the depth
slope is [2016] of flow at section P is _________. [2016]
(a) horizontal (b) mild
Solution: 0.025
(c) critical (d) steep
The maximum height of hump Δz is given by
Solution: (b) E = Emin + Dzmax
Given discharge (Q) = 163 m/sec.
Bed slope (S) = 0.001 q2 3
⇒ y+ 2
= yc + ∆zmax
Manning’s roughness coefficients (n) = 0.012 2 gy 2

g = 10 m/s2 Q 6
=
q== 2=
m 2 /s, y 0.5 m
B 3
Width (B) = 4 m 1/ 3 1/ 3
Channel is wide rectangular  q2   22 
yc =   =  = 0.74 m
 g   9.81 
y B >> y
( 2) 2 3
So, 0.5 + = × 0.74 + ∆zmax
2 × 9.81× (0.5) 2
2
B
Area (A) = B y ⇒ ∆Z max = 0.205 m
Perimeter (P) = B Hence, the answer is 0.025.
A By 3. A rectangular channel flow having a bed slope of
= =y
P B 0.0001, width 3.0 m and Manning’s coefficient “n”
1 0.015, carries a discharge of 1.0 m3/sec. Given that
Hydraulic Radius (R) = Q = AR 2 / 3 S 1/ 2 the normal depth of flow ranges between 0.76 m
n
1 and 0.8 m. The minimum width of throat (in m)
16 = ( 4 × y ) y 2 / 3 s1/ 2 that is possible at a given section, while ensuring
0.02
that the prevailing normal depth is not exceeded
For meanings equation along the reach upstream of the contraction, is
16 × 0.012 approximately equal to (assume negligible losses)
= y5/ 3  [2014]
4 × 0.001
(a) 0.64 (b) 0.84
y = 2.95 m (c) 1.04 (d) 1.24
1/ 3
 q2  Solution: (b)
yc =  
 g  Bed slope: S = 0.0001
Q 16 Width of rectangular channel: B = 3 m
q = = =4 Manning’s coefficient: n = 0.015
B 4
1/ 3
Discharge: Q = 1 m3/sec
 42  Range of normal depth of flow: yn = 0.76 to 0.8 m
= 
 10  If prevailing normal depth of flow does not exceed
yc = 1.169 m along the reach upstream, the chocking occurs at the
contracted section. At this point critical flow occurs.
y > yc ⇒ Channel is mild slop. 1
Q= AR 2 / 3 S 1/ 2
Hence, the correct option is (b). n

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 Chapter 1 Uniform Flow | 7.7

1  By 
2/3
5. For subcritical flow in an open channel, the control
= By   S 1/ 2 section for gradually varied flow profile is [2013]
   n  B + 2 y  (a) at the downstream end.
1  3y 
2/3
(b) at the upstream end.
1= 3y   (0.0001)1/ 2 (c) at both upstream and downstream ends.
0.015  3 + 2 y 
(d) at any intermediate section.
By trial and error: y = 0.78 m
Solution: (a)
V2 Q2
Specific energy: Ec = y + = y+ Control section is defined as a section in which a
2g 2 gB 2 y 2 fixed relationship exists between the discharge and
12 depth of flow. The critical depth is also a control
Ec = 0.78 + = 0.789 m point. Subcritical flows have controls in the down-
2 × 9.81× 32 × (0.78) 2
stream end while supercritical flows are governed
Also, by control sections existing at the upstream end of
1/ 3
the channel section.
3  Q  1 
1/ 3 2
3 3  q2 
Ec = yc =   =    Hence, the correct option is (a).
2 2 g  2  Bmin  g 
  6. The normal depth in a wide rectangular channel is
1/ 3
increased by 10%. The percentage increase in the
3  1  1 
2

0.789 =   discharge in the channel is [2013]


2  Bmin  9.81  (a) 20.1 (b) 15.4
 
(c) 10.5 (d) 17.2
Bmin = 0.837 m
Hence, the correct option is (b). Solution: (d)
The discharge through a channel,
4. A rectangular channel of 2.5 m width is carrying
a discharge of 4 m3/s. Considering that accelera- 1
Q = A R 2 / 3 S 1/ 2
tion due to gravity as 9.81 m/s2, then velocity of n
flow (in m/s) corresponding to the critical depth (at For wide rectangular channel,
which the specific energy is minimum) is ______.
 [2014] A By
R= = ≈y
Solution: 2.504 P B + 2y
Width of rectangular channel: B = 2.5 m
Discharge: Q = 1 m3/sec 1 2 / 3 1/ 2 1 1/ 2 5 / 3
Q = By y S = BS y Q α y 5 / 3
Discharge per unit width: n n
Q 4
=
q = = 1.6 m3 /sec/m y1 = 1.1 y
B 2.5
Acceleration due to gravity: g = 9.81 m/sec2 Q1 (1.1 y )5 / 3
=
Velocity of flow corresponding to critical depth: V = ? Q2 y5/ 3
For critical section,
1/ 3 1/ 3 Q1 = 1.172 Q
 q2   1.6 2 
yc =   =  = 0.639 m The discharge increased by 17.2%.
 g   9.81 
Hence, the correct option is (d).
At critical depth, Froude number is equal to 1.
7. A trapezoidal channel is 10.0 m wide at the base
V and has a side slope of 4 horizontal to 3 verti-
Fr = ⇒ V = gy
gy cal. The bed slope is 0.002. The channel is lined
with smooth concrete (Manning’s n = 0.012). The
= 9.81× 0.639 = 2.504 m/sec
hydraulic radius (in m) for a depth of flow of 3.0 m
Hence, the answer is 2.504. is [2012]

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 7.8 | Open-Channel Hydraulics

H A By
D= = =y
T B
3 3m   y3/2 = 7.982; y = 4.0 m
4 Hence, the correct option is (a).
10 m
9. The top width and depth of flow in a triangular
channel were measured as 4 m and 1 m, respec-
(a) 20.0 (b) 3.5 tively. The measured velocities on the centre line at
(c) 3.0 (d) 2.1 the water surface, 0.2 m and 0.8 m below the sur-
face are 0.7 m/s, 0.6 m/s, and 0.4 m/s, respectively.
Solution: (d)
Using two-point method of velocity measurement,
Width of channel at base: B = 10.0 m
the discharge (in m3/s) in the channel is [2012]
4 4
Side scope: 4 H to= 3 V, z = H :1 V (a) 1.4 (b) 1.2
3 3 (c) 1.0 (d) 0.8
Bed slope: S = 0.002
Manning’s coefficient: n = 0.012 Solution: (c)
Depth of flow: y = 3.0 m 4m
Hydraulic radius: R = ?
Cross sectional area:
 4  1m
A = ( B + zy ) y = 10 + × 3  3 = 42 m 2
 3 

Velocity at surface, V0 = 0.7 m/s

Velocity at 0.2 m below water surface, V0.2 = 0.6 m/s
Velocity at 0.8 m below water surface, V0.8 = 0.4 m/s
B = 10 m
Velocity measurement using two point method,
Wetted perimeter: V0.2 + V0.8 0.6 + 0.4
2 Vmean = = = 0.5 m/ sec
4 2 2
P = B + 2 y 1 + z 2 = 10 + 2 × 3 1 +   = 20 m
3
Discharge in the channel: Q = VA
A 42
= =
R = 2.1 m 1
P 20 Q = 0.5 × × 4 × 1 = 1 m3 /sec
2
Hence, the correct option is (d).
Hence, the correct option is (c).
8. A rectangular open channel of width 5.0 m is car-
10. For a given discharge, the critical flow depth in an
rying a discharge of 100 m3/s. The Froude number
open channel depends on [2011]
of the flow is 0.8. The depth of flow (in m) in the
(a) channel geometry only.
channel is [2012]
(b) channel geometry and bed slope.
(a) 4 (b) 5
(c) channel geometry, bed slope and roughness.
(c) 16 (d) 20
(d) channel geometry, bed slope, roughness and
Solution: (a) Reynolds number.
Width of channel: B = 5.0 m Solution: (a)
Discharge: Q = 100 m3/s The criteria for the critical state in an open channel
Froude number: Fr = 0.8
Q 2 A3
Depth of flow: y = ? is =
g T
100
For a given discharge, the critical flow depth
V Q 100 5y
Fr = ;V = = ; 0.8 = ; ­depends on channel geometry only.
gD A 5y 9.81× y Hence, the correct option is (a).

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 Chapter 1 Uniform Flow | 7.9

11. The flow in a horizontal, frictionless rectangular 12. The flow in a rectangular channel is subcritical. If
open channel is supercritical. A smooth hump is width of the channel is reduced at a certain sec-
built on the channel floor. As the height of hump is tion, the water surface under no-choke condition
increased, choked condition is attained. With fur- will [2010]
ther increase in the height of the hump, the water (a) drop at a downstream section.
surface will [2011] (b) rise at a downstream section.
(a) rise at a section upstream of the hump. (c) rise at an downstream section.
(b) drop at a section upstream of the hump. (d) not undergo any change.
(c) drop at the hump Solution: (a)
(d) rise at the hump

Solution: (b)
The height of hump can be increased to a certain B1 B2
maximum value without altering the condition of
the approaching flow upstream of hump. The lim-
iting value of height of hump Dzmax may be com- Energy line
puted as
E1 = Ec + Dzmax
E1 : Specific energy at section 1.
E1
Ec : 
Minimum possible specific energy for the
­given discharge. y2 yC

Energy line
Horizontal

E1 y1 E2 Specific energy at section 1:

yC y2 V2 Q2
E1 = y1 + 1 = y1 + .
Hump Δz 2g 2 gB12 y12
1 2 Specific energy at section 2:
Channel transition with a hump
V22 Q2
E 2 = y2 + = y2 + .
Depth, y2 2g 2 gB22 y22
Depth y1, and y2

Since, there are no losses involved and since the

bed elevations at sections 1 and 2 are same, spe-
Depth, y1 cific energy at section 1 is equal to specific energy
at section 2.
E1 = E2
Δ zmax Δz Q Q
=q1 = and q2
Variation of y1 and y2 in supercitical B1 B2
flow over a hump.
Since, B1 > B2 , q2 > q1
For a given specific energy, the discharge per unit
If the height of hump is increased further, in or-
with increases and hence the depth of flow will de-
der to pass the same discharge the specific ­energy
crease. Therefore, water surface drop at a down-
will have to be increased. For subcritical flow ap-
stream section.
proaching the hump, the depth of flow at section 1
Hence, the correct option is (a).
will be reduced. For subcritical flow approaching
the hump, the required increase in the depth of flow 13. For a rectangular channel section, Group I lists
at section 1. geometrical elements and Group II gives propor-
Hence, the correct option is (b). tions for hydraulically efficient section. [2010]

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 7.10 | Open-Channel Hydraulics

Group-I Group-II (a) 1.80 m (b) 1.56 m

(c) 1.36 m (d) 1.29 m
ye
P. T op width 1. Solution: (d)
2
Q. Perimeter 2. ye Froude number: Fr = 0.8
Depth of flow: y = 1.5 m
R. Hydraulic Radius 3. 2ye Froude number for a rectangular channel is given
S. Hydraulic Depth 4. 4ye V
by Fr =
gy
ye is the flow depth corresponding to hydraulically
efficient section. V = 0.8 9.81× 1.5 = 3.07 m/s
The correct match of Group I with Group II is
Discharge per unit width of a rectangular channel:
(a) P: 2; Q: 4; R: 1; S: 3
q = Vy = 3.07 × 1.5 = 4.6 m3/s/m
(b) P: 3; Q: 1; R: 4; S: 2 1/ 3
(c) P: 3; Q: 4; R: 1; S: 2  q2 
(d) P: 3; Q: 4; R: 2; S: 1 Critical depth: yc =  
 g 
1/ 3
Solution: (c)  4.6 2 
=  = 1.29
 9.81 
Hence, the correct option is (d).
yC
15. Direct-step method of computation for gradually
varied flow is [2009]
(a) applicable to non-prismatic channels.
B
(b) applicable to prismatic channels.
(c) applicable to both prismatic and non-prismatic
Let B: Width of rectangular channel channels.
y: Flow depth (d) not applicable to both prismatic and non-­
A: Area of flow = By prismatic channels.
P: Wetted perimeter = B + 2y Solution: (b)
A Direct-step method of computation for gradually
= + 2y
y varied flow profile is possibly the simplest and is
For hydraulically most efficient section, P should suitable for use in prismatic channels. In the direct-
be minimum. step method of integration, the entire length of the
channel is divided into short reaches and the com-
dP A
= 0 ⇒ − 2 + 2 = 0; A = 2 y 2 ; Ae = 2e2 ; Be = 2 ye putation is carried out step-by-step from one end
dy y of the reach to the other.

Top width: T = 2 ye Hence, the correct option is (c).
Perimeter: P = B + 2 ye = 2 ye + 2 ye = 4 ye 16. A rectangular open channel of width 4.5 m is car-
rying a discharge of 100 m3/sec. The critical depth
A 2Ye2 Ye of the channel is [2009]
=
Hydraulic radius: R = =
P 4Ye 2 (a) 7.09 m (b) 3.69 m
A 2Ye2 (c) 2.16 m (d) 1.31 m
Hydraulic depth: D= = = Ye
T 2Ye Solution: (b)
Hence, the correct option is (c). Width of the channel: B = 4.5 m
Discharge: Q = 100 m3/sec
14. A Froude number of flow in a rectangular channel
qc2
Critical depth of channel: yc =
3
is 0.8. If the depth of flow is 1.5 m, the critical
depth is [2010] g

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 Chapter 1 Uniform Flow | 7.11

Discharge per unit width of channel or unit dis- When 0 < ∆z < ∆zm , the upstream water level
Q ­remains stationary at y1 while the depth of flow at
charge: q = section 2 decreases with Dz reaching a maximum
B
value of yc at Dz = Dzm.
100
= =22.22 m 2 /sec Let E1 and E2 are specific energies before and after
   4.5
providing hump, then
( 22.22) 2
= 3
   yc = ; yc 3.69 m. E1 + E2 = ∆zmax
9.81
Hence, the correct option is (b). Q2 Q2
y1 + = y c + + ∆zmax
Common Data for Questions 17, 18 and 19: 2 gA2 2 gB 2 yc2
 A rectangular channel 6.0 m wide carries a dis-
1/ 3 1/ 3
charge of 16.0 m3/s under uniform condition with  q2   16 2 
normal depth of 1.60 m. Manning’s n is 0.015. yc =   = 2  = 0.898 m
 g   6 × 9.81 
 [2008]
17. The longitudinal slope of the channel is 16 2 16 2
1.6 + = 0.898 +
(a) 0.000585 (b) 0.000485 2 × 9.81× 9.6 2
2 × 9.81× 6 2 × 0.8982
(c) 0.000385 (d) 0.000285 +∆zmax
Solution: (a) Dzmax = 0.399 m = 0.4 m
Width of the rectangular channel: B = 6.0 m
Discharge: Q = 16 m3/sec Hence, the correct option is (b).
Normal depth: 1 = 1.6 m 19. The channel width is to be contracted. The mini-
Manning’s coefficient: n = 0.015 mum width to which the channel can be contracted
1 without affecting the upstream flow condition is
Manning’s equation is V = R 2 / 3 S 1/ 2  [2008]
n
(a) 3.0 m (b) 3.8 m
Cross sectional area of the channel: A = B × y = 6
(c) 4.1 m (d) 4.5 m
× 1.6 = 9.6 m2

Perimeter of the channel: P = B + 2y = 6 + 2 × 1.6 Solution: (c)
= 9.2 m If the channel is contracted, the depth of flow at this
A 9.6 location decreases. Thus the width of the channel
Hydraulic mean depth, R = = = 1.04 m
P 9.2 can be decreased till the specific energy becomes
minimum. If the channel is contracted further, the
1
Q = A R 2 / 3 S 1/ 2 depth of flow starts decreasing. E1 = E2
n
1 Q2 Q2
16 = 9.6 × (1.04) 2/3 S1/2 ; S = 0.000585 y1 + = y c +
0.015 2 gA2 2 gB 2 yc2
Hence, the correct option is (a). Q2
y1 + = Emin
18. A hump is to be provided on the channel bed. The 2 gA2
maximum height of the jump without affecting the
upstream flow condition is 16 2 3
1.6 + = yc
(a) 0.50 m (b) 0.40 m 2 × 9.81× 9.6 2 2
(c) 0.30 m (d) 0.20 m
1/ 3 1/ 3
Solution: (b) 3  Q2  3  16 2 
1.74 = ×  2  ; 1.74 =  2 
When a hump is provided on the channel bed, the 2  B ×g 2  B × 9.81 
depth of flow will reduce. If Dz be the maximum
height of hump, so that the depth of flow remains B2/3 = 2.557 ; B = 4.13 m
same. Hence, the correct option is (c).

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 7.12 | Open-Channel Hydraulics

20. A triangular open-channel has a vertex angle of 90° V

We know that: Fr =
and carries flow at a critical depth of 0.30 m. The gD
discharge in the channel is [2007]
(a) 0.08 m3/s (b) 0.11 m3/s Q
Velocity of flow: V =
(c) 0.15 m3/s (d) 0.2 m3/s A
Solution: (b) A By
Hydraulic radius: D= = =y
T B
Q
Fr =
   A gy
2 1
=0.5 = ; 0.5
1 2
2 y gy 2
y gy
90°
z Squaring on both sides:
1/ 5
1  1 
Side slope: z horizontal to 1 vertical 0.25 = ; y=  = 0.836
gy 5
 0.25 × 9.81 
When q = 90°, z = 1
Critical depth, yc = 0.3 m 1
1/ 5
Using Manning’s equation: Q = A R 2 / 3 S 1/ 2
 2Q  2 n
For triangular channel, yc = 
c
 2 1
 gz  2 = 2(0.836) ×
2
(0.5 × 0.836) 2 / 3 S 1/ 2
0.018
gz 2 yc5 9.81× 1× (0.3)5 S1/2 = 0.0461; S = 0.0021
Qc2 = = ; Qc = 0.11 m3 /sec Hence, the correct option is (b).
2 2
Hence, the correct option is (b). 22. Keeping the width, flow depth and roughness the
same, if the bed slope of the above channel is dou-
Statement for Linked Questions 21 and 22:
 bled, the average, boundary shear stress under uni-

A rectangular open channel needs to be designed form flow conditions is 
to carry a flow of 2.0 m3/s under uniform flow con- (a) 5.6 N/m2 (b) 10.8 N/m2
ditions. The Manning’s roughness coefficient is (c) 12.3 N/m 2
(d) 17.2 N/m2
0.018. The channel should be such that the flow
depth is equal to half the width, and the Froude Solution: (d)
number is equal to 0.5. [2007] Average boundary sheer stress: τ o = γ RSo
Bed slope, So = 2S = 2 × 0.0021 = 0.0042
21. The bed slope of the channel to be provided is [] to = 9810 × 0.5 × 0.836 × 0.0042 = 17.22 N/m2
(a) 0.0012 (b) 0.0021 Hence, the correct option is (d).
(c) 0.0025 (d) 0.0052
23. A very wide rectangular channel is designed to
Solution: (b) carry a discharge of 5 m3/s per meter width. The
Rate of flow: Q = 2 m3/s design is based on the Manning’s equation with the
Manning’s roughness coefficient, n = 0.018 roughness coefficient obtained from the grain size
B using Strickler’s equation and results in a normal
Flow depth: y = depth of 1.0 m. By mistake, however the engineer
2
Froude number: Fe = 0.5 used the grain diameter in mm in the Stickler’s
equation instead of in metre. What should be the
Bed slope of the channel: S = ?
correct normal depth? [2006]
A By 2 yy (a) 0.32 m (b) 0.50 m
Hydraulic radius: R = = = = 0.5 y
P B + 2y 4y (c) 2.00 m (d) 3.20 m

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 Chapter 1 Uniform Flow | 7.13

Solution: (b)
Discharge in channel: q = 5 m3/s/m
For a very wide rectangular channel: R = y
y 1

Strickler’s equation for Manning’s coefficient:
d 1/ 6 1
n=
24
where d: Grain diameter in m
1 2 / 3 1/ 2
n ∝ d 1/ 6 Manning’s equation is V = R S
n
ncorrect  1 
1/ 6
A y2 y
= =
R = =
nwrong  1000  P 2 2y 2 2

1 2 / 3 1/ 2 1
Manning’s formula is given by V = R S Q = A R 2 / 3 S 1/ 2
n n
2/3 1/ 2
1 5 / 3 1/ 2 1  y   1 
q= y S ; n ∝ y5/ 3 ; y ∝ n3 / 5 25 = y 2    6000 
n 0.018  2 2   
3/ 5 13
n   1 6 5 = =
y 8 / 3 69 .71; y 4.91 m
ycorrect =  correct  × ywrong =  × 1 = 0.5 m.
n  1000  Hence, the correct option is (c).
 wrong 
26. For a pipe of radius, r, flowing half full under the
Hence, the correct option is (b).
action of gravity, the hydraulic depth is [2004]
24. Critical depth at a section of a rectangular chan- πr
(a) r (b) ⋅
nel is 1.5 m. The specific energy at that section is 4
 [2005] r
(c) (d) 0.379r
(a) 0.75 m (b) 1.0 m 2
(c) 1.5 m (d) 2.25 m Solution: (b)
Solution: (d)
Critical depth of rectangular section: yc = 1.5 m
Specific energy at critical section: Ec = ?
For a rectangular channel: Ec = 1.5 yc = 1.5×1.5 =
2.25 m
Hence, the correct option is (d).
25. A triangular irrigation lined canal carries a dis-
charge of 25 m3/s at bed slope = 1/6000. If the side
slopes of the canal are 1:1 and Manning’s coeffi-
cient is 0.018, the central depth of flow is equal to Radius of the pipe = r
 [2005]
(a) 1.98 m (b) 2.98 m π r2
Area: A =
(c) 4.91 m (d) 5.62 m 2
Top width: T = 2r
Solution: (c)
A
Discharge: Q = 25 m3/s Hydraulic depth: D =
Bed slope: S = 1/6000 T
Side slope = 1:1 π r2 1 π r
D= =
Manning’s coefficient: n = 0.018 2 2r 4
Depth of flow = y Hence, the correct option is (b).

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 7.14 | Open-Channel Hydraulics

27. A steep wide rectangular channel takes off from  82 

1/ 3

a reservoir having an elevation of 101.2 m. At the =   = 1.868 m

 9.81 
entrance, the bottom elevation of the channel is
100 m. If the slope of the channel is increased by 1
4%, the discharge per unit length in the channel Manning’s equation is given by q = yR 2 / 3 S 1/ 2
n
will be [2004] For a wide rectangular channel, R = y = yn
(a) 2.24 m2/s.
1 1
(b) higher than 2.24 m2/s by 4%. = q = y n ( y n ) 2 / 3 S 1/ 2 ( y n ) 5 / 3 S 1/ 2
(c) higher than 2.24 m /s by 2%.
2    n n
(d) choked. 1
8= ( yn )5 / 3 (0.004)1/ 2
Solution: (c) 0.015
Let the discharge in the channel be Q0 when the yn = 1.468 m.
slope is S0. yc > yn > y
The discharge is given by  The gradually varied flow profile will be S3 type.
Hence, the correct option is (d).
1 23 12
= Q0 = R s0 K S0 29. At what distance from this section the flow depth
n
will be 0.9 m? Use the direct step method employ-
When the slope increases by 4% , then the new dis- ing a single step.
charge is Q1. (a) 65 m downstream (b) 50 m ­downstream
(c) 50 m downstream (d) 65 m downstream
Q1 = K 1.04 S0
Solution: (b)
Q1 K 1.04 S0 Flow depth in a channel at section 1: y1 = 1 m
= Flow depth in a channel at a section 2: y2 = 0.9 m
Q0 K S0
1 + 0.9
Q1 = 1.019 Q0 Depth at mid point: y = = 0.95 m.
2
≈ 1.02 Q0 ⋅ E − E1
∆x = 2
Discharge increases by 2%. S 0 −S f
Hence, the correct option is (c).
S f : Average friction slope of reach
 Data for Questions 28–29 are given below. Solve 1 5 / 3 1/ 2
the problems and choose correct answers. Manning equation is q = ( y ) S f
n
A very wide rectangular channel carries a dis-
1
charge of 8 m3/s per m width. The channel has a 8= (0.015)5 / 3 S 1f / 2
bed slope of 0.004 and Manning’s roughness coef- 0.015
ficient, n = 0.015. At a certain section of the chan- S f = 0.0171
nel, the flow depth is 1 m. [2003]
E1: Specific energy at section 1
28. What gradually varied flow profile exists at this
section? v12 q2 82
= y1 + = y1 + = 1+ = 4.26 m.
(a) M2 (b) M3 2g 2
2 gy1 2 × 9.81× (1) 2
(c) S2 (d) S3 E2: Specific energy at section 2
Solution: (d) v22 q2 82
Discharge per unit width: q = 8 m3/s = y2 + = y1 + = 0 .9 +
2g 2 gy22 2 × 9.81× (0.9) 2
Channel bed slope: S = 0.004
Manning’s coefficient: n = 0.015 = 4.927 m
Flow depth in channel at a certain section: y = 1 m
4.927 − 4.26
1/ 3 ∆x =
 = -50.3 m = 50.3 (down stream)
 q2  0.004 − 0.0171
Critical depth: yc =  
 g  Hence, the correct option is (b).

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