Introduction to Open Channel Hydraulics

This chapter discusses open channel flow and defines the many variables used in an open channel flow analysis. As is presented in this chapter, it is possible to classify the flow occurring in an open channel on the basis of many criteria, including time, depth, space, and regime (subcritical or supercritical). The governing equations for open channel flow are discussed, along with the classification of profile shapes. Finally, the chapter outlines the common procedure for open channel flow analysis: the standard step method.