CELE Hydraulics & Fluid Mechanics — Hydrodynamics and Fluid MachineryExam Answer Templates
Exam-style answer templates for Hydrodynamics and Fluid Machinery — how to answer CELE Hydraulics & Fluid Mechanics questions when Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) — Board of Civil Engineering asks about this chapter. Use these as your mental checklist on exam day.
Exam context
Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) — Board of Civil Engineering runs the Civil Engineer Licensure Examination on May and November 2026. Its Hydraulics & Fluid Mechanics section sits under a "Core" weighting, and Hydrodynamics and Fluid Machinery is the 9th chapter in the 10-chapter CELE Hydraulics & Fluid Mechanics rotation. The CELE passing mark is 70% weighted average, no sub-test below 50%, and the most recent 2026 paper drew about a meaningful share of questions from Hydraulics & Fluid Mechanics.
Hydrodynamics and Fluid Machinery - Exam Answer Templates
Proper answer writing in the PRC Civil Engineer Licensure Examination is not just about knowing the correct answer — it is about presenting your solution in a structured, logical, and mark-earning format. Examiners award marks for specific steps, correct use of formulas, proper units, and clear labeling of variables. In Hydrodynamics and Fluid Machinery, a common reason for low scores is incorrect formula selection (e.g., using stationary-vane formula for a moving vane) or omitting the efficiency factor in pump/turbine power calculations. These templates show you exactly how a perfect answer looks for each mark level, what phrases trigger full marks, and where students typically lose points unnecessarily. Study each template as a model — then replicate the structure in your own exam answers.
Templates
State the momentum equation used to find the force exerted by a jet on a stationary flat plate normal to the flow.
Marks
1
Topic
Force of a Jet on a Flat Plate
Difficulty
easy
Template Id
T1
Examiner Tip
For a 1-mark VSA, the examiner wants the formula only — do not waste time deriving it. Write it cleanly, define the symbols in one line, and move on.
Model Answer
The force of a jet striking a stationary flat plate normally is given by: F = ρQv = ρAv² where ρ = fluid density (kg/m³), Q = discharge (m³/s), v = jet velocity (m/s), and A = jet cross-sectional area (m²).
Question Type
very_short_answer
Answer Structure
- Line 1: Write the correct formula F = ρQv or F = ρAv² [1 mark]
Scoring Breakdown
Marks
1
Criteria
Correct formula F = ρQv (or equivalent F = ρAv²) with any brief identification of variables
Common Mark Deductions
- Writing F = ρQΔv without simplifying for a stationary plate (v_out = 0, so Δv = v)
- Using γ (specific weight) instead of ρ (density) in the momentum equation
- Omitting units or writing force in Pa instead of N
Key Phrases To Include
- F = ρQv
- ρAv²
- momentum
- stationary plate
- normal
Differentiate between the force formula for a jet on a stationary curved vane versus a moving curved vane turning the jet through angle θ.
Marks
2
Topic
Force on Stationary and Moving Curved Vanes
Difficulty
medium
Template Id
T2
Examiner Tip
Examiners specifically set 2-mark questions on this distinction because it is the most common error. Explicitly write the phrase 'relative velocity (v − u)' — that phrase alone signals that you understand the concept.
Model Answer
For a stationary curved vane: F = ρQv(1 − cosθ) where v = absolute jet velocity, Q = actual discharge. For a moving curved vane (vane speed = u): F = ρQ_rel · (v − u)(1 − cosθ) where (v − u) = relative velocity of jet with respect to vane, and Q_rel = A(v − u) is the relative discharge striking the vane. Key difference: A moving vane intercepts less flow (relative discharge), so both the relative velocity (v − u) and the effective discharge are reduced, resulting in a smaller force than for an identical stationary vane.
Question Type
short_answer
Answer Structure
- Line 1–2: Stationary vane formula with definition of v and Q [1 mark]
- Line 3–5: Moving vane formula with relative velocity (v − u) and Q_rel, plus explanation of the key difference [1 mark]
Scoring Breakdown
Marks
1
Criteria
Correct stationary-vane formula F = ρQv(1 − cosθ) with proper variable identification
Marks
1
Criteria
Correct moving-vane formula using relative velocity (v − u) and relative discharge Q_rel = A(v − u), with a statement that effective discharge is reduced
Common Mark Deductions
- Using absolute velocity v instead of relative velocity (v − u) in the moving-vane formula
- Using the same Q for both cases without noting that moving vane intercepts less flow
- Confusing θ (turning angle) with the angle of the jet to the horizontal
Key Phrases To Include
- relative velocity
- (v − u)
- relative discharge
- Q_rel = A(v − u)
- stationary vane
- moving vane
- (1 − cosθ)
A water jet of area 0.005 m² and velocity 20 m/s strikes a stationary flat plate perpendicularly. Calculate the force on the plate. (ρ = 1000 kg/m³)
Marks
2
Topic
Force of a Jet on a Flat Plate
Difficulty
easy
Template Id
T3
Examiner Tip
Write 'Q = Av' as a separate numbered step — even for simple problems. It shows a systematic approach and protects your process mark if you make an arithmetic error.
Model Answer
Given: A = 0.005 m², v = 20 m/s, ρ = 1000 kg/m³ Step 1 — Discharge: Q = Av = 0.005 × 20 = 0.10 m³/s Step 2 — Force (momentum equation, stationary normal plate): F = ρQv = 1000 × 0.10 × 20 ∴ F = 2000 N = 2.0 kN
Question Type
numerical
Answer Structure
- Step 1: Compute Q = Av [½ mark — process]
- Step 2: Apply F = ρQv and substitute [½ mark — correct formula]
- Step 3: Correct numerical answer with unit (2000 N or 2.0 kN) [1 mark]
Scoring Breakdown
Marks
1
Criteria
Correct formula F = ρQv (or F = ρAv²) and correct substitution with proper values
Marks
1
Criteria
Correct final answer: F = 2000 N (or 2.0 kN) with unit stated
Common Mark Deductions
- Forgetting to compute Q first and plugging in A instead of Q in F = ρQv
- Using γ = 9810 N/m³ instead of ρ = 1000 kg/m³ in the momentum equation
- No unit in final answer
Key Phrases To Include
- Q = Av
- F = ρQv
- momentum equation
- 2000 N
- 2.0 kN
Define Net Positive Suction Head (NPSH) and explain its significance in pump operation.
Marks
2
Topic
Pumps — NPSH and Cavitation
Difficulty
medium
Template Id
T4
Examiner Tip
For definition-plus-significance questions, always use the structure: 'X is defined as... Its significance is...' — this guarantees you address both marking points clearly.
Model Answer
Net Positive Suction Head (NPSH) is the difference between the absolute pressure head at the pump suction inlet and the vapor pressure head of the liquid at the operating temperature, measured in metres of fluid. Significance: If the available NPSH (NPSH_A) at the pump inlet falls below the required NPSH (NPSH_R) specified by the manufacturer, the local pressure drops to the vapor pressure of the liquid, causing cavitation — the formation and violent collapse of vapor bubbles. Cavitation causes noise, vibration, pitting of impeller surfaces, and a sudden drop in pump head and discharge, potentially destroying the pump. To prevent cavitation, the designer must ensure NPSH_A > NPSH_R at all operating conditions.
Question Type
short_answer
Answer Structure
- Sentence 1: Definition of NPSH (absolute suction pressure head minus vapor pressure head) [1 mark]
- Sentence 2–3: Consequence if NPSH_A < NPSH_R — cavitation, its effects, and the design rule NPSH_A > NPSH_R [1 mark]
Scoring Breakdown
Marks
1
Criteria
Correct definition: absolute pressure head at suction minus vapor pressure head of the liquid
Marks
1
Criteria
Explanation of cavitation risk when NPSH_A < NPSH_R, including at least one consequence (noise, pitting, head loss) and the design criterion NPSH_A > NPSH_R
Common Mark Deductions
- Defining NPSH as gauge pressure instead of absolute pressure
- Stating cavitation occurs without explaining the physical mechanism (pressure drops to vapor pressure)
- Omitting the design requirement NPSH_A > NPSH_R
Key Phrases To Include
- absolute pressure head
- vapor pressure head
- NPSH_A
- NPSH_R
- cavitation
- impeller pitting
- NPSH_A > NPSH_R
A pump delivers Q = 0.05 m³/s against a total head of 30 m. If the pump efficiency is 75%, calculate the required input (motor) power.
Marks
3
Topic
Pump Power and Efficiency
Difficulty
easy
Template Id
T5
Examiner Tip
Write the rule explicitly: 'For a pump, efficiency = output/input, so input = output/η.' This one-line statement earns a process mark even if your arithmetic is slightly off.
Model Answer
Given: Q = 0.05 m³/s, H = 30 m, η = 75% = 0.75 γ = 9.81 kN/m³ Step 1 — Water (output) power of the pump: P_water = γQH = 9.81 × 0.05 × 30 = 14.715 kW Step 2 — Input (shaft/motor) power: For a pump: efficiency = (output power)/(input power) ∴ P_input = P_water / η = 14.715 / 0.75 ∴ P_input = 19.62 kW The motor must supply at least 19.62 kW to drive the pump.
Question Type
numerical
Answer Structure
- Step 1: List all given data with units [½ mark]
- Step 2: Compute water power P_water = γQH (correct formula and substitution) [1 mark]
- Step 3: State efficiency relationship and compute P_input = P_water/η [1 mark]
- Step 4: Correct final answer with unit (19.62 kW) [½ mark]
Scoring Breakdown
Marks
1
Criteria
Correct formula P_water = γQH and correct substitution yielding 14.715 kW
Marks
1
Criteria
Correct application of P_input = P_water/η (division, not multiplication, for a pump)
Marks
1
Criteria
Correct final answer 19.62 kW with unit and a conclusion statement
Common Mark Deductions
- Multiplying by η instead of dividing (reversing pump and turbine efficiency rules)
- Using ρ = 1000 kg/m³ instead of γ = 9810 N/m³ (or 9.81 kN/m³) in the power formula
- Answering in watts without converting to kW when γ is used in kN/m³
- Omitting final unit or stating answer as 19.62 without 'kW'
Key Phrases To Include
- P_water = γQH
- P_input = γQH/η
- 14.715 kW
- 19.62 kW
- efficiency divides for pump
A hydraulic turbine operates under a net head of 15 m with a flow rate of 2 m³/s. If the turbine efficiency is 85%, determine the shaft power output.
Marks
3
Topic
Turbine Power and Efficiency
Difficulty
easy
Template Id
T6
Examiner Tip
Contrast your turbine answer with the pump formula in a brief note: 'Turbine: P_out = η·γQH (multiply); Pump: P_in = γQH/η (divide).' Examiners appreciate when you show awareness of the distinction.
Model Answer
Given: H = 15 m, Q = 2 m³/s, η = 85% = 0.85 γ = 9.81 kN/m³ Step 1 — Available (gross) hydraulic power: P_hydraulic = γQH = 9.81 × 2 × 15 = 294.3 kW Step 2 — Shaft (output) power: For a turbine: P_output = η × P_hydraulic P_output = 0.85 × 294.3 ∴ P_output = 250.2 kW The turbine delivers 250.2 kW of shaft power.
Question Type
numerical
Answer Structure
- Step 1: List given data [½ mark]
- Step 2: Compute hydraulic power P = γQH [1 mark]
- Step 3: Apply P_output = η·γQH for turbine (multiply by η) [1 mark]
- Step 4: Correct final answer with unit (250.2 kW) [½ mark]
Scoring Breakdown
Marks
1
Criteria
Correct formula P_hydraulic = γQH and correct value 294.3 kW
Marks
1
Criteria
Correct turbine power formula P_output = η·γQH (multiply η, not divide)
Marks
1
Criteria
Final answer 250.2 kW with unit stated
Common Mark Deductions
- Dividing by η instead of multiplying (confusing turbine with pump formula)
- Using H as gross head without noting the question specifies 'net head' (no deduction if net is already given, but must be acknowledged)
- Unit error: answering in watts (250,155 W) without converting to kW
Key Phrases To Include
- P_output = η·γQH
- 294.3 kW
- 250.2 kW
- net head
- turbine efficiency multiplies
A 50 mm diameter jet at 25 m/s strikes a stationary curved vane that deflects the jet through 120°. Calculate the resultant force on the vane. (ρ = 1000 kg/m³)
Marks
3
Topic
Force on Curved Vane
Difficulty
medium
Template Id
T7
Examiner Tip
Always state explicitly: 'The turning angle θ = 120°, cos120° = −0.5, so (1 − cosθ) = 1 − (−0.5) = 1.5.' This step is the most common error source and writing it out completely earns you full process marks.
Model Answer
Given: d = 50 mm = 0.05 m, v = 25 m/s, θ = 120°, ρ = 1000 kg/m³ A = π/4 × (0.05)² = 1.9635 × 10⁻³ m² Step 1 — Discharge: Q = Av = 1.9635 × 10⁻³ × 25 = 0.04909 m³/s Step 2 — Force on vane (curved vane formula): F = ρQv(1 − cosθ) [θ = turning angle = 120°] cos120° = −0.5 F = 1000 × 0.04909 × 25 × (1 − (−0.5)) F = 1000 × 0.04909 × 25 × 1.5 F = 1227.2 × 1.5 ∴ F = 1840.8 N ≈ 1.84 kN The resultant force on the vane is approximately 1.84 kN.
Question Type
numerical
Answer Structure
- Step 1: Compute jet area A = π/4·d² [½ mark]
- Step 2: Compute discharge Q = Av [½ mark]
- Step 3: Apply F = ρQv(1 − cosθ) with θ = 120° and evaluate cos120° = −0.5 [1 mark]
- Step 4: Correct final answer ≈ 1.84 kN with unit [1 mark]
Scoring Breakdown
Marks
1
Criteria
Correct formula F = ρQv(1 − cosθ) and correct evaluation of cos120° = −0.5 giving (1 − (−0.5)) = 1.5
Marks
1
Criteria
Correct discharge calculation Q = 0.04909 m³/s from jet diameter 50 mm
Marks
1
Criteria
Correct final answer approximately 1840 N (1.84 kN) with unit
Common Mark Deductions
- Using θ = 60° (the supplement) instead of the actual turning angle θ = 120°
- Computing cos120° as +0.5 instead of −0.5 (sign error reducing force by half)
- Using jet diameter directly as radius in area calculation
- Not converting 50 mm to 0.05 m before squaring
Key Phrases To Include
- F = ρQv(1 − cosθ)
- cos120° = −0.5
- (1 − cosθ) = 1.5
- turning angle
- 1840 N
- 1.84 kN
State and explain the three pump affinity laws relating speed change to pump performance parameters.
Marks
3
Topic
Pump Affinity Laws
Difficulty
easy
Template Id
T8
Examiner Tip
Memorize using the mnemonic '1-2-3': Q is first power, H is second power, P is third power of N. Write all three in ratio form immediately — it takes 20 seconds and guarantees 3 marks.
Model Answer
The pump affinity laws describe how the performance of a geometrically similar centrifugal pump changes when its rotational speed N changes (at constant impeller diameter): 1. Discharge varies directly with speed: Q₂/Q₁ = N₂/N₁ (Q ∝ N) 2. Total head varies as the square of speed: H₂/H₁ = (N₂/N₁)² (H ∝ N²) 3. Power varies as the cube of speed: P₂/P₁ = (N₂/N₁)³ (P ∝ N³) Physical basis: Discharge follows impeller tip speed (∝ N); head is proportional to the square of tip speed (kinetic energy); power = γQH ∝ N · N² = N³.
Question Type
short_answer
Answer Structure
- Law 1: Q ∝ N with ratio form Q₂/Q₁ = N₂/N₁ [1 mark]
- Law 2: H ∝ N² with ratio form H₂/H₁ = (N₂/N₁)² [1 mark]
- Law 3: P ∝ N³ with ratio form P₂/P₁ = (N₂/N₁)³ [1 mark]
Scoring Breakdown
Marks
1
Criteria
Correct first affinity law: Q ∝ N or Q₂/Q₁ = N₂/N₁
Marks
1
Criteria
Correct second affinity law: H ∝ N² or H₂/H₁ = (N₂/N₁)²
Marks
1
Criteria
Correct third affinity law: P ∝ N³ or P₂/P₁ = (N₂/N₁)³
Common Mark Deductions
- Reversing exponents: writing H ∝ N³ and P ∝ N² (swapping the laws for head and power)
- Not writing the ratio form — examiners expect the usable equation, not just proportionality
- Applying laws to different-diameter impellers without noting the constant-diameter condition
Key Phrases To Include
- Q ∝ N
- H ∝ N²
- P ∝ N³
- affinity laws
- constant impeller diameter
- N₂/N₁
A centrifugal pump running at 1450 rpm produces a head of 25 m and discharges 0.03 m³/s. Find the head, discharge, and power ratio when the speed is increased to 1750 rpm.
Marks
5
Topic
Pump Affinity Laws — Numerical Application
Difficulty
medium
Template Id
T9
Examiner Tip
Always compute the speed ratio r = N₂/N₁ as a single decimal first. Then: Q₂ = Q₁·r, H₂ = H₁·r², P₂ = P₁·r³. Boxing the ratio value prevents repetitive arithmetic errors across all three laws.
Model Answer
Given: N₁ = 1450 rpm, H₁ = 25 m, Q₁ = 0.03 m³/s N₂ = 1750 rpm Speed ratio: N₂/N₁ = 1750/1450 = 1.2069 Affinity Law 1 — New discharge: Q₂/Q₁ = N₂/N₁ Q₂ = Q₁ × (N₂/N₁) = 0.03 × 1.2069 Q₂ = 0.0362 m³/s Affinity Law 2 — New head: H₂/H₁ = (N₂/N₁)² H₂ = H₁ × (N₂/N₁)² = 25 × (1.2069)² H₂ = 25 × 1.4566 H₂ = 36.4 m Affinity Law 3 — Power ratio: P₂/P₁ = (N₂/N₁)³ = (1.2069)³ = 1.759 (Power increases by a factor of 1.76 — motor must be sized accordingly.) Summary: Q₂ = 0.0362 m³/s, H₂ = 36.4 m, P₂/P₁ = 1.76
Question Type
numerical
Answer Structure
- Step 1: Compute speed ratio N₂/N₁ = 1.2069 [½ mark]
- Step 2: Apply Law 1 to find Q₂ = 0.0362 m³/s [1 mark]
- Step 3: Apply Law 2 to find H₂ = 36.4 m [1½ marks]
- Step 4: Apply Law 3 to find P₂/P₁ = 1.76 [1½ marks]
- Step 5: Summary statement [½ mark]
Scoring Breakdown
Marks
1
Criteria
Correct discharge Q₂ = 0.0362 m³/s using Q ∝ N
Marks
2
Criteria
Correct head H₂ = 36.4 m using H ∝ N² with correct squaring of speed ratio
Marks
2
Criteria
Correct power ratio P₂/P₁ = 1.76 using P ∝ N³ with correct cubing of speed ratio
Common Mark Deductions
- Using N₁/N₂ (inverted ratio) leading to reduced values instead of increased ones
- Forgetting to square the ratio for H or cube it for P
- Not computing the speed ratio as a single number first — leads to arithmetic errors in squaring/cubing
- Omitting the power ratio or stating only the power ratio without computing H₂ and Q₂
Key Phrases To Include
- N₂/N₁ = 1.2069
- Q₂ = Q₁(N₂/N₁)
- H₂ = H₁(N₂/N₁)²
- P₂/P₁ = (N₂/N₁)³
- 36.4 m
- 1.76
Derive the expression for the anchoring force required on a pipe bend that turns flow through 90°. The pipe carries water at Q = 0.2 m³/s; upstream diameter D₁ = 300 mm, p₁ = 200 kPa; downstream diameter D₂ = 200 mm. Find the magnitude of the resultant anchoring force.
Marks
5
Topic
Force on a Pipe Bend
Difficulty
hard
Template Id
T10
Examiner Tip
Draw the free-body diagram of the control volume FIRST. Label the four force contributions: two momentum fluxes (in and out) and two pressure forces (at each port). Missing any one of these four terms costs you marks.
Model Answer
Given: Q = 0.2 m³/s, D₁ = 0.30 m, D₂ = 0.20 m, p₁ = 200 kPa Bend turns flow from +x (inlet) to +y (outlet); 90° horizontal bend. ρ = 1000 kg/m³, γ = 9.81 kN/m³ Step 1 — Cross-sectional areas: A₁ = π/4 × (0.30)² = 0.07069 m² A₂ = π/4 × (0.20)² = 0.03142 m² Step 2 — Velocities: v₁ = Q/A₁ = 0.2/0.07069 = 2.829 m/s v₂ = Q/A₂ = 0.2/0.03142 = 6.366 m/s Step 3 — Find p₂ using Bernoulli (neglect elevation change): p₁/γ + v₁²/2g = p₂/γ + v₂²/2g p₂ = p₁ + ρ/2·(v₁² − v₂²) p₂ = 200,000 + 500·(2.829² − 6.366²) p₂ = 200,000 + 500·(8.003 − 40.525) p₂ = 200,000 − 16,261 = 183,739 Pa ≈ 183.7 kPa Step 4 — Momentum equation in x-direction: ΣFx = ρQ(v₂x − v₁x) Flow exits in +y direction, so v₂x = 0; flow enters in +x, so v₁x = v₁ = 2.829 m/s p₁A₁ − Rx = ρQ(0 − v₁) [Rx = reaction force component in x on fluid] Rx = p₁A₁ + ρQ·v₁ Rx = (200,000 × 0.07069) + (1000 × 0.2 × 2.829) Rx = 14,138 + 565.8 = 14,703.8 N = 14.70 kN Step 5 — Momentum equation in y-direction: Flow exits at +y with v₂y = v₂ = 6.366 m/s; v₁y = 0 −p₂A₂ − Ry = ρQ(v₂ − 0) [sign: p₂A₂ acts in −y on the control volume] Ry = −p₂A₂ − ρQ·v₂ |Ry| = (183,739 × 0.03142) + (1000 × 0.2 × 6.366) |Ry| = 5,771.7 + 1,273.2 = 7,044.9 N = 7.04 kN Step 6 — Resultant anchoring force: R = √(Rx² + Ry²) = √(14.70² + 7.04²) R = √(216.09 + 49.56) = √265.65 ∴ R = 16.30 kN Angle of resultant with x-axis: φ = arctan(7.04/14.70) = 25.6°
Question Type
numerical
Answer Structure
- Step 1–2: Compute areas and velocities [1 mark]
- Step 3: Apply Bernoulli to find p₂ [1 mark]
- Step 4: Apply momentum in x: include pressure force p₁A₁ AND momentum flux ρQv₁ [1 mark]
- Step 5: Apply momentum in y: include pressure force p₂A₂ AND momentum flux ρQv₂ [1 mark]
- Step 6: Combine Rx and Ry vectorially for resultant R = 16.30 kN [1 mark]
Scoring Breakdown
Marks
1
Criteria
Correct areas A₁, A₂ and velocities v₁ = 2.83 m/s, v₂ = 6.37 m/s
Marks
1
Criteria
Correct use of Bernoulli to find p₂ ≈ 183.7 kPa
Marks
1
Criteria
Correct x-momentum equation including BOTH p₁A₁ pressure term AND ρQv₁ momentum flux term
Marks
1
Criteria
Correct y-momentum equation including BOTH p₂A₂ pressure term AND ρQv₂ momentum flux term
Marks
1
Criteria
Correct resultant R = √(Rx² + Ry²) ≈ 16.30 kN with unit and optional direction
Common Mark Deductions
- Omitting the pressure force terms p₁A₁ and p₂A₂ — this is the most common and costliest error (−2 marks)
- Not finding p₂ using Bernoulli — assuming p₂ = p₁ when areas differ
- Incorrect velocity direction assumptions for the 90° bend
- Not taking the vector sum — adding Rx + Ry algebraically instead of using Pythagoras
Key Phrases To Include
- control volume
- p₁A₁
- p₂A₂
- ρQ(v₂ − v₁)
- Bernoulli
- resultant
- √(Rx² + Ry²)
- anchoring force
A Pelton turbine develops 500 kW under a net head of 120 m at an efficiency of 88%. Find the required discharge.
Marks
3
Topic
Turbine — Discharge from Power
Difficulty
medium
Template Id
T11
Examiner Tip
When a problem gives P_output and asks for Q, the Pelton turbine is the tip-off for impulse type. The formula rearranges simply — write it, rearrange it, substitute. Three clear steps, three marks.
Model Answer
Given: P_output = 500 kW, H = 120 m, η = 0.88 γ = 9.81 kN/m³ Using the turbine power formula: P_output = η · γ · Q · H Solving for Q: Q = P_output / (η · γ · H) Q = 500 / (0.88 × 9.81 × 120) Q = 500 / 1035.936 ∴ Q = 0.4826 m³/s ≈ 0.483 m³/s The turbine requires a discharge of approximately 0.483 m³/s.
Question Type
numerical
Answer Structure
- Step 1: Write turbine power formula P = η·γ·Q·H [1 mark]
- Step 2: Rearrange for Q = P/(η·γ·H) and substitute [1 mark]
- Step 3: Correct answer Q ≈ 0.483 m³/s with unit [1 mark]
Scoring Breakdown
Marks
1
Criteria
Correct turbine power formula P_output = η·γ·Q·H written explicitly
Marks
1
Criteria
Correct algebraic rearrangement Q = P/(η·γ·H) and substitution of values
Marks
1
Criteria
Correct final answer Q ≈ 0.483 m³/s with unit
Common Mark Deductions
- Using P = γQH/η (pump formula) instead of P = η·γQH (turbine formula)
- Not converting γ to kN/m³ when P is given in kW — unit mismatch
- Arithmetic error in denominator: not multiplying η × γ × H correctly
Key Phrases To Include
- P_output = η·γ·Q·H
- Pelton turbine
- impulse turbine
- Q = P/(η·γ·H)
- 0.483 m³/s
Distinguish between impulse turbines and reaction turbines, giving one Philippine example application for each.
Marks
2
Topic
Types of Turbines
Difficulty
medium
Template Id
T12
Examiner Tip
Memorize the one-line distinction: 'Impulse = jet in air; Reaction = runner submerged.' Then expand for marks. Philippine examples show local relevance and impress examiners.
Model Answer
Impulse Turbine (e.g., Pelton Wheel): All available head is converted to kinetic energy in nozzles before striking the runner. The runner operates in air (atmospheric pressure throughout); pressure does not change across the buckets. Used for high head, low discharge applications. Philippine example: Proposed or existing micro-hydro Pelton installations in the Cordillera highlands of Northern Luzon, where steep mountain streams provide heads exceeding 100 m. Reaction Turbine (e.g., Francis, Kaplan): Only part of the head converts to velocity in the guide vanes; the remainder converts to pressure energy within the runner itself. The runner is fully submerged; pressure drops across the runner. Used for low-to-medium head, high discharge applications. Philippine example: Francis turbines at the Pantabangan–Masiway hydroelectric complex (Pantabangan Dam, Nueva Ecija) and Angat Dam hydroelectric plant, operating under moderate heads with high flow.
Question Type
short_answer
Answer Structure
- Lines 1–2: Impulse turbine — mechanism (all head to KE, atmospheric pressure on runner) and head range [1 mark]
- Lines 3–4: Reaction turbine — mechanism (partial pressure conversion within runner, fully submerged) and head range, plus relevant Philippine example for each [1 mark]
Scoring Breakdown
Marks
1
Criteria
Correct description of impulse turbine: all head converted to KE via nozzle, runner in air at atmospheric pressure, high head application; named example (Pelton)
Marks
1
Criteria
Correct description of reaction turbine: partial head as pressure energy within runner, submerged runner, low-medium head application; named example (Francis or Kaplan)
Common Mark Deductions
- Stating that impulse turbines use 'all the pressure' — they use kinetic energy from the converted pressure, not pressure directly
- Incorrectly classifying Francis turbine as impulse
- Not providing a Philippine-context example when asked
Key Phrases To Include
- impulse
- reaction
- Pelton
- Francis
- Kaplan
- atmospheric pressure
- high head
- submerged runner
- nozzle
- guide vanes
A pump lifts water at Q = 0.08 m³/s through a total head of 45 m. If the pump efficiency is 70%, find the required motor power in kW.
Marks
2
Topic
Pump Power and Efficiency
Difficulty
easy
Template Id
T13
Examiner Tip
A quick sanity check: motor power must always be GREATER than water power for a pump. If your answer is less than γQH = 35.3 kW, you have made the division/multiplication error.
Model Answer
Given: Q = 0.08 m³/s, H = 45 m, η = 0.70, γ = 9.81 kN/m³ Input (motor) power: P_input = γQH / η = (9.81 × 0.08 × 45) / 0.70 P_input = 35.316 / 0.70 ∴ P_input = 50.45 kW
Question Type
numerical
Answer Structure
- Step 1: Write formula P_input = γQH/η with values [1 mark]
- Step 2: Correct final answer 50.45 kW with unit [1 mark]
Scoring Breakdown
Marks
1
Criteria
Correct formula P_input = γQH/η and correct substitution
Marks
1
Criteria
Correct answer 50.45 kW (accept 50.4–50.5 kW) with unit
Common Mark Deductions
- Multiplying instead of dividing by η (giving 24.72 kW — a sub-efficiency answer, which is physically impossible for pump input)
- Using ρ = 1000 kg/m³ and forgetting to divide by 1000 to convert N·m/s to kW
Key Phrases To Include
- P_input = γQH/η
- 35.316 kW
- 50.45 kW
- motor power
What is the specific speed of a turbine, and what is its significance in turbine selection?
Marks
1
Topic
Turbine Classification — Specific Speed
Difficulty
medium
Template Id
T14
Examiner Tip
For 1-mark concept questions, write a single crisp sentence that contains both the definition and the application — examiners look for both in VSA scoring.
Model Answer
Specific speed (Ns) of a turbine is the rotational speed at which a geometrically similar turbine would produce unit power under unit head. It is used to classify turbine type: low Ns (10–50) → Pelton (impulse); medium Ns (50–300) → Francis; high Ns (300–900) → Kaplan/propeller (reaction).
Question Type
very_short_answer
Answer Structure
- One sentence: definition of specific speed [½ mark]
- One sentence: significance for turbine-type selection with approximate ranges [½ mark]
Scoring Breakdown
Marks
1
Criteria
Definition mentioning unit power and unit head, plus use in turbine classification/selection
Common Mark Deductions
- Confusing turbine specific speed with pump specific speed (both exist but have different expressions)
- Stating Ns without noting its role in selecting turbine type
Key Phrases To Include
- specific speed
- unit power
- unit head
- turbine selection
- Pelton
- Francis
- Kaplan
A water jet of diameter 30 mm and velocity 15 m/s strikes a series of moving flat vanes traveling at 6 m/s in the same direction as the jet. Calculate the force on the vanes and the power developed.
Marks
5
Topic
Force and Power — Moving Flat Vane
Difficulty
hard
Template Id
T15
Examiner Tip
For any moving-vane problem, ALWAYS write 'v_rel = v − u' as the very first formula after listing given data. This single line earns a mark AND sets up every subsequent step correctly. If you use absolute velocity, every downstream answer is wrong.
Model Answer
Given: d = 30 mm = 0.03 m, v_jet = 15 m/s, u = 6 m/s (vane speed) ρ = 1000 kg/m³ A = π/4 × (0.03)² = 7.069 × 10⁻⁴ m² Step 1 — Relative velocity of jet with respect to vane: v_rel = v_jet − u = 15 − 6 = 9 m/s Step 2 — Relative discharge (flow striking the moving vanes): Q_rel = A · v_rel = 7.069 × 10⁻⁴ × 9 = 6.362 × 10⁻³ m³/s Step 3 — Force on vane (flat plate, normal impact): For a flat plate, the jet bounces back; relative velocity reverses direction. F = ρ · Q_rel · v_rel = 1000 × 6.362 × 10⁻³ × 9 F = 57.26 N Step 4 — Power developed by the moving vanes: P = F × u = 57.26 × 6 P = 343.6 W ≈ 344 W Note: For a moving flat vane, maximum power occurs at u = v/3 (one-third rule). Here u = 6 m/s = 0.4v — slightly past the maximum point. Summary: Force = 57.3 N; Power = 344 W
Question Type
numerical
Answer Structure
- Step 1: Compute jet area A [½ mark]
- Step 2: Compute relative velocity v_rel = v − u = 9 m/s [1 mark]
- Step 3: Compute relative discharge Q_rel = A·v_rel [1 mark]
- Step 4: Apply F = ρ·Q_rel·v_rel = 57.3 N [1 mark]
- Step 5: Compute P = F × u = 344 W [1½ marks]
Scoring Breakdown
Marks
1
Criteria
Correct relative velocity v_rel = v − u = 9 m/s stated explicitly
Marks
1
Criteria
Correct relative discharge Q_rel = A·v_rel = 6.362 × 10⁻³ m³/s
Marks
1
Criteria
Correct force F = ρ·Q_rel·v_rel = 57.3 N with unit
Marks
2
Criteria
Correct power P = F × u = 344 W with unit and proper formula P = F·u stated
Common Mark Deductions
- Using absolute velocity v = 15 m/s instead of relative velocity 9 m/s for a moving vane
- Using the absolute discharge Q = Av (based on absolute v) instead of relative discharge Q_rel = A·v_rel
- Computing power as P = γQH instead of P = F·u for a moving vane problem
- Not explicitly stating v_rel = v − u before substituting — loses the process mark
Key Phrases To Include
- relative velocity
- v_rel = v − u = 9 m/s
- relative discharge
- Q_rel = A·v_rel
- F = ρ·Q_rel·v_rel
- P = F·u
- 57.3 N
- 344 W
Mark Wise Strategy
Dos
- Write the correct formula or definition in the very first line
- Define at least two key symbols (e.g., ρ, Q, v) to show you understand the notation
- Use correct SI units where applicable (N, m³/s, m/s)
- Box or underline the final answer for easy examiner location
Donts
- Do not derive the formula from first principles — you have no time and it earns no extra marks at this level
- Do not write lengthy explanations — VSA examiners look for precision, not volume
- Do not leave a 1-mark question blank; a partially correct formula still earns partial credit
Marks
1
Strategy
Identify the single concept or formula being tested. Write the formula or one-line definition immediately. Define key symbols in the same line. Do not derive — state and move on.
Expected Length
1–2 lines or one formula with variable definitions
Time Allocation
1–2 minutes
Dos
- Separate your two marking points visually — use (a) and (b) or two clearly distinct sentences
- For numerical: always show Q = Av as a separate step before using it in F = ρQv
- State units after every computed value, not just the final answer
- For definition questions: write definition + significance (two separate sentences)
Donts
- Do not combine two marking points into one dense sentence — examiners may miss the second point
- Do not skip intermediate steps — if step 1 is wrong, a visible step 2 can still earn a method mark
- Do not use γ in the momentum equation — ρ for momentum, γ for power
- Do not forget to state the turning angle θ or relative velocity u when relevant
Marks
2
Strategy
For numerical 2-mark questions: write the formula, substitute, and state the answer — three lines minimum. For conceptual: address two distinct marking points, each in a separate sentence or bullet. The examiner is awarding one mark per distinct point.
Expected Length
3–5 lines; 2–3 steps for numerical, 2 distinct points for conceptual
Time Allocation
3–4 minutes
Dos
- Number every step (Step 1, Step 2, Step 3) — this structure guides the examiner directly to each mark
- Write the governing formula in Step 1 — earn the formula mark even if arithmetic fails later
- Include a brief conclusion sentence: 'The required motor power is 19.62 kW' — this is a habit that earns presentation marks
- For vane problems: state whether vane is stationary or moving in Step 1 — sets up the correct formula path
- For pump/turbine: explicitly note 'divide by η for pump; multiply η for turbine' in your working
Donts
- Do not skip stating the formula and jump straight to numbers
- Do not round intermediate values too early — carry at least 4 significant figures until the final answer
- Do not confuse (1 − cosθ) with (1 + cosθ) — compute cosθ first, note its sign, then evaluate the expression
- Do not answer only part of the question — check if both force components and resultant are required
Marks
3
Strategy
Three marks = three distinct earning points. Structure your answer with numbered steps. Each step should conclude with a boxed intermediate result. The three marks are typically: (1) correct formula, (2) correct substitution/intermediate value, (3) correct final answer with unit.
Expected Length
6–10 lines with 3–4 clearly numbered steps
Time Allocation
5–8 minutes
Dos
- Start with a neat 'Given:' block listing all data with units — takes 1 minute but prevents input errors
- Draw a labeled control volume diagram for bend/force problems and a system diagram for pump/turbine problems
- Apply Bernoulli before momentum for pipe-bend problems — you need p₂ before you can complete the momentum equation
- State all three affinity laws when doing speed-change problems, even if only two are asked — demonstrates thoroughness
- Write a boxed 'Summary' at the end listing all computed values — helps the examiner award the final mark quickly
- Check dimensional consistency: momentum uses ρ [kg/m³], power uses γ [N/m³ or kN/m³]
Donts
- Do not omit pressure forces p₁A₁ and p₂A₂ in bend problems — this single omission costs 2 marks
- Do not add Fx and Fy algebraically — always use R = √(Fx² + Fy²) for the resultant
- Do not assume the same pressure at inlet and outlet for different pipe diameters — use Bernoulli
- Do not skip the power formula derivation when finding Q from P or P from Q for turbines — show the algebraic rearrangement explicitly
- Do not run out of time — if stuck on one step, skip it, complete the remaining steps, and return
Marks
5
Strategy
A 5-mark problem tests a full engineering workflow. Plan: (a) list all given data, (b) identify all required sub-steps, (c) execute each step, (d) check units and reasonableness, (e) write a summary. One mark per major sub-step. Draw a free-body diagram or control volume sketch whenever the problem involves forces — this can earn a mark by itself and prevents direction errors.
Expected Length
15–25 lines with clearly headed sections or 5 numbered steps
Time Allocation
10–15 minutes
General Answer Writing Tips
- Always write the governing formula FIRST before substituting numerical values — examiners award a mark for the correct formula even if arithmetic errors occur later.
- Label every variable when you write a formula (e.g., 'where Q = discharge in m³/s, H = total head in m') — this shows conceptual understanding and earns process marks.
- Always include units at every step; a correct numerical answer without units earns zero in most sub-questions. Use SI units consistently (m, s, kN, kW, kg/m³).
- For jet-and-vane problems, explicitly state whether the vane is stationary or moving and write the relative velocity — examiners specifically look for this distinction.
- For pump vs turbine power problems, clearly state: 'Efficiency divides for a pump (input power) and multiplies for a turbine (output power)' — this one sentence prevents the most common error.
- Draw a free-body diagram or control volume sketch for bend/force problems, label all pressure forces (p₁A₁, p₂A₂) and momentum flux directions — a neat labeled sketch can earn 1 mark by itself.
- When applying affinity laws, state the law used (e.g., 'By the pump affinity law, H ∝ N²') before computing — this demonstrates knowledge of theory, not just arithmetic.
- Box your final answer and restate it with the correct unit at the end of every solution to make it easy for the examiner to locate and award the mark.
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