Interactive engineering model
Normal-depth channel reach
Change discharge, slope, roughness, and channel geometry to solve the uniform-flow depth in real time.
Preparing the 3D model...
A circular or trapezoidal reach tilts with grade and fills to the depth that satisfies Manning's equation. A critical-depth marker sits beside the solved normal depth for regime comparison, and a discharge past the capacity maximum draws the barrel flowing full beneath a hydraulic grade line.
Focus the 3D view and use the arrow keys to orbit, plus or minus to zoom, and Home to reset the view.
Text explanation and non-WebGL fallback
A circular or trapezoidal reach tilts with grade and fills to the depth that satisfies Manning's equation. A critical-depth marker sits beside the solved normal depth for regime comparison, and a discharge past the capacity maximum draws the barrel flowing full beneath a hydraulic grade line.
The numeric controls and readouts remain usable if WebGL is unavailable. Drag or swipe the 3D view to orbit and use a wheel or pinch gesture to zoom. With the 3D view focused, use the arrow keys to orbit, plus or minus to zoom, and Home to reset. The complete numeric lesson is also keyboard-accessible in the adjacent controls and readouts. This model is an educational aid and does not replace applicable design standards or professional review.