Definition of Kinematic Viscosity:
- Kinematic viscosity is the ratio of dynamic viscosity to the density of the fluid.
- $\nu = \frac{\eta}{\rho}$
Where:
- ν = kinematic viscosity (units: m²/s or centistokes, cSt)
- η = dynamic viscosity (e.g., poise, centipoise)
- ρ = density of the fluid (e.g., g/cm³)
Why is it important?
- It relates viscosity to the physical mass of the fluid.
- It’s especially important in flow meters and in hydrodynamics, where fluid movement is also affected by density.
Advertisements