Seeding (fluid dynamics)

This article is about the term in the context of fluid dynamics. For the manipulation of clouds, see cloud seeding.
For other uses, see seeding (disambiguation).
Flow around a sphere being visualized by seeding the flow with smoke.
Visualization of hairpin vortex structure, made visible by seeding the flow with colored dye.

Seeding is a fundamental technique in fluid dynamics. It is used to visualize and measure fluid flow. Researchers introduce small particles, called seed particles, into a fluid. These particles move with the fluid. This allows researchers to observe and analyze the fluid's movement under different conditions.

The significance of seeding is its ability to provide insights into complex fluid behaviors. These behaviors are otherwise invisible to the naked eye. Techniques like Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV) and Laser Doppler Velocimetry (LDV) rely on seeding to obtain accurate data. Seeding is an indispensable tool in experimental fluid mechanics. It enables precise measurements and detailed visualizations. This drives advancements in science and engineering, such as investigating airflow over aircraft wings, analyzing blood flow through arteries, and studying the dispersion of pollutants in the environment.[1]

  1. ^ Johnson, Richard W. (1998). The Handbook of Fluid Dynamics. Springer Science & Business Media. ISBN 9783540646129.