What phenomenon describes a change in flow depth from less than to greater than the critical depth?

The phenomenon that describes a change in flow depth from less than to greater than the critical depth is known as a hydraulic jump. In open channel flow, critical depth represents the point at which the flow transitions between subcritical and supercritical regimes. When the flow is subcritical (depth less than the critical depth), it is relatively calm and characterized by slower velocities. As the flow transitions across the critical depth threshold, the flow becomes supercritical, characterized by higher velocities and a turbulent state.

During a hydraulic jump, the sudden change in flow conditions leads to energy dissipation, often resulting in the formation of waves and turbulence. This phenomenon is important in engineering applications, such as channel design, spillways, and understanding water flow in natural and constructed waterways.

Cavitation refers to the formation of vapor cavities in a liquid, typically around a propeller or pump, and does not involve a depth change relative to critical depth. Fluidization is a process where solid particles are suspended in a liquid or gas flow, creating a fluid-like behavior, and does not pertain to the changes in flow depth. Contraction refers to the narrowing of a flow area, which can influence flow dynamics but does not directly involve a transition in critical depth. Therefore, the hydraulic