Reynolds Decomposition

Definition

Reynolds Decomposition is a mathematical technique used to separate a flow variable (like velocity or pressure) into a mean (time-averaged) component and a fluctuating component.

Formula

$u = \bar{u} + u'$ where $\bar{u}$ is the mean velocity and $u'$ is the fluctuating component. $\overline{u'} = 0$.

Relationships

• Related: Turbulence, Reynolds-Averaged Navier-Stokes Equations