Joseph Boussinesq and his theory of water flow in open channels

Joseph Valentin Boussinesq (1842-1929) is known in open channel hydraulics for the outstanding theory bearing his name to deal with streamlined-flows. However, the original developments did not last over time and remain lost in his original writings. A current state of the art indicates domination o...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal of hydraulic research 2011-10, Vol.49 (5), p.569-577
Main Authors: Castro-Orgaz, Oscar, Hager, Willi H.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Backwater curve
Boussinesq equations
Channels
Computational fluid dynamics
curvilinear flow
Earth sciences
Earth, ocean, space
eddy viscosity
Exact sciences and technology
Fluid flow
free overfall
Hydrology. Hydrogeology
Teaching
Theory
Turbulence
Turbulent flow
undular hydraulic jump
Velocity
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Summary:Joseph Valentin Boussinesq (1842-1929) is known in open channel hydraulics for the outstanding theory bearing his name to deal with streamlined-flows. However, the original developments did not last over time and remain lost in his original writings. A current state of the art indicates domination of the gradually-varied flow theory in research, teaching and practice. The present Forum paper explores the original work of Boussinesq, from which it is discovered that his theory is more general than currently believed. Important findings include an original solution for the turbulent velocity profile with streamline curvature, a misleading interpretation of his famous velocity correction coefficient bearing his name, and a rigorous and systematic classification of backwater curves, including these arising from curvilinear flows. This presentation is intended to diffuse his theory to its definite inclusion in research, teaching and practice, given its superiority over current standards of gradually-varied flow computations.
ISSN:0022-1686
1814-2079
DOI:10.1080/00221686.2011.588784