Homework 2.1 tested me on the understanding and use of Bernoulli’s equation, as well as my ability to calculate volumetric flow rate and pump head. Bernoulli’s equation is similar to Newton’s law, but Bernoulli’s overcomes some limitations and is able to handle pumps, turbines and energy losses. Problem 7.30 required me to calculate energy losses in the system using Bernoulli’s equation, this is a purely academic problem and I would later learn a different equation to calculate energy losses.

Homework 2.2 was related to my ability to calculate energy losses, this was interesting in that I am now able to account for the losses due to piping in a system. It makes sense that the first step in these calculations is to establish a reference point; preferably one that eliminates the need to calculate negative numbers. Second, I learned to choose points based on two things; either I know most of the information about the point, or, this is the point I need to find information about.

Homework 2.3 introduced Open Channels and Wet Perimeter. The other factor involved here is area, and even though the math was simple, I struggled a little bit; I learned to keep things simple and to go slowly to avoid basic mistakes. The formula to calculate hydraulic radius (R) is relatively simple and, plugging the open channel volumetric formula into excel improved my understanding of open channels.

Finally, homework 2.4 tested my understanding of instrumentation such as flow nozzles to measure pressure in a system. On problem 15.4, I initially chose the wrong formula, but realized I was given the specific weigh of two fluids and not the pressure at two points; once I realized that and applied the correct formula, I was able to work out the rest of the problem. I also learned that I should always choose a “worst case scenario” or parameters when designing a system.

Homework 2.1

Homework 2.2

Homework 2.3

Homework 2.4