Mathematical Modelling of Fluid Flow in an Open Channel with an Elliptic Cross-Section

This study was essentially concerned with fluid flow in an open channel with an elliptic cross-section. The fluid flow considered uniform unsteady Newtonian fluid. The flow parameters such as hydraulic radius, friction slope and channel slope were studied and their effects on fluid velocity and fluid depth. The centered finite difference numerical method of approximation was used to solve the continuity and momentum governing equations using the MATLAB computational method. The results obtained from the investigation were presented in tabulated and graphical form. The findings were that, an increase in the hydraulic radius caused the fluid flow depth to increase. The frictional force on the walls of the channel caused retardation of the smooth flow of water molecules and as a result, the velocity was decreasing systematically.