Which of the following best describes laminar flow?

Laminar flow is characterized by smooth and orderly movement of fluid where layers of fluid slide past one another with minimal mixing. In this type of flow, the fluid moves in parallel layers, and the velocity of the fluid at any given point remains relatively constant over time. This behavior results from the dominance of viscous forces over inertial forces, which is a defining trait of laminar flow.

In engineering contexts, laminar flow typically occurs at low velocities and with fluids of higher viscosity. It can be observed in conditions where the Reynolds number is low, typically less than 2000. Understanding laminar flow is crucial for predicting how fluids will behave in various scenarios, such as in pipes, airfoils, and around objects, which can significantly impact design and analysis in mechanical engineering applications.