Hydraulic Analogy - Principle Equivalents

Principle Equivalents

EM wave speed (velocity of propagation)

Speed of sound in water. When a light switch is flipped, the electric wave travels very quickly through the wires.

Charge flow speed (drift velocity)

Particle speed of water. The moving charges themselves move rather slowly.

DC

Constant flow of water in a circuit of pipe

Low frequency AC

Water oscillating back and forth in a pipe

Higher-frequency AC and transmission lines

Sound being transmitted through the water pipes: Be aware that this does not properly mirror the cyclical reversal of alternating electric current. As described, the fluid flow conveys pressure fluctations, but fluids *do not* reverse at high rates in hydraulic systems, which the above "low frequency" entry does accurately describe. A better concept (if sound waves are to be the phenomenon) is that of direct current with high-frequency "ripple" superimposed.

Inductive spark

Used in induction coils, similar to water hammer, caused by the inertia of water

Static electricity

Moisture from condensation.

See also Bond graph.