This simulation visualizes Darcy's Law, a fundamental equation in hydrogeology and petroleum engineering that describes the flow of a fluid through a porous medium like rock.
The formula is: Q = - (k * A / μ) * (dP/dL)
The simulation shows fluid particles (blue) moving through a rock matrix (grey). The speed of the particles and the calculated Flow Rate (Q) at the top of the screen are determined by the parameters you control.
Rock Type: Select presets for common geological formations with different permeability characteristics.
Permeability (k): Measures how easily fluid can pass through the rock. Higher permeability (fewer, larger gaps in the grey matrix) allows for a much higher flow rate.
Area (A): The cross-sectional area available for flow. A larger area means more fluid can flow through at once, increasing the total flow rate Q.
Viscosity (μ): The "thickness" or resistance to flow of the fluid. A higher viscosity (like heavy oil) makes it harder for the fluid to move, reducing the flow rate.
Pressure Gradient (dP/dL): The driving force behind the flow. A higher gradient represents a larger pressure difference pushing the fluid, resulting in a faster flow.