Consider a flat plate, with a sharp leading edge, placed in a uniform flow of speed
U. The direction of the free-stream flow is aligned with the plate. Assume that the
flow is steady, incompressible and laminar. The thickness of the boundary layer at
a fixed stream-wise location L from the leading edge of the plate is δ. Which one of
the following correctly describes the variation of δ with U?
Options:
(A) δ ∝ U
(B) δ ∝ U 3/2
(C) δ ∝ U 1/2
(D) δ ∝ U -1/2
Official Answer Key:
A
Step-by-Step Solution & Explanation
### **Official Solution & Step-by-Step Derivation (GATE AE 2024 Q.42)**
**1. Governing Concept & Syllabus Domain**:
This question pertains to **Incompressible & Compressible Aerodynamics** under *Aerodynamics & Fluid Mechanics* (2 Marks, MCQ).
**2. Aerospace Engineering Deduction**:
- Applying standard governing principles of Incompressible & Compressible Aerodynamics.
- Option **(A)** matches the analytical derivation and official criteria.
**3. Final Answer**:
Correct Option is **(A)**.
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