Contraction coefficient

{
  "id": "MLC-T-MET-004656",
  "term": "Contraction coefficient",
  "field": "Meteorology and atmospheric science",
  "definition": "A dimensionless ratio used in fluid dynamics to describe the narrowing of a fluid stream as it passes through an orifice. It is the ratio of the cross-sectional area of the fluid jet at its narrowest point, the vena contracta, to the cross-sectional area of the orifice itself. This coefficient is always less than one and is used in calculations of airflow through openings and in the design of instruments like venturi meters.",
  "synonyms": [
    "coefficient of contraction"
  ],
  "url": "https://mlchart.com/terminology/meteorology/contraction-coefficient/"
}