What is defined as the speed at which water travels through piping?

The term that specifically refers to the speed at which water travels through piping is water velocity. Water velocity is an important concept in irrigation and plumbing as it determines how quickly water is moving within the pipes, which can affect irrigation efficiency and the overall performance of the irrigation system.

Water velocity is typically measured in feet per second (fps) or meters per second (m/s) and is influenced by various factors including the flow rate and the diameter of the pipe. Understanding water velocity is crucial for designing effective irrigation systems, preventing issues such as pipe damage, and ensuring that water reaches its intended destination in a timely manner.

Flow rate, although related to water velocity, describes the volume of water moving through the pipe over a specific time period rather than the speed itself. Pressure gradient refers to the difference in pressure that drives water through the system. Pipe diameter affects both flow rate and velocity but does not define the speed directly.