What is the discharge coefficient of a pipe commonly considered to be?

The discharge coefficient of a pipe is a dimensionless number that characterizes the efficiency of fluid flow through the pipe relative to the theoretical flow. A discharge coefficient of 0.97 indicates that the pipe allows for a very efficient flow of fluid, with minimal losses due to friction and turbulence. This value is commonly accepted for smooth pipes under laminar or fully developed turbulent flow conditions, reflecting a high-performance scenario in which the flow is not significantly hindered by the pipe's geometry or surface roughness.

In practical applications, this value is often referenced because it is close to the theoretical maximum discharge coefficient of 1.00, which would indicate perfect flow with no losses. However, most real systems involve some losses due to factors like surface roughness and potential obstructions, making 0.97 a realistic and commonly used value in engineering calculations for discharge in pipes.

The other choices represent values that might be used in different contexts or for less efficient systems. For example, a discharge coefficient of 0.85 or 0.90 could apply to situations with greater energy losses or less ideal flow conditions. In contrast, a value of 1.00 would be idealized and not achievable in real-world applications. Thus, 0.97