What is laminar flow?

Laminar flow refers to a type of fluid movement characterized by smooth and orderly layers. In the context of blood flow, this means that the blood moves in well-defined layers or streamlines, with the fastest flow occurring in the center of the vessel. This occurs because the fluid near the vessel walls moves more slowly due to friction and viscosity, while layers closer to the center face less resistance and therefore move more quickly. This arrangement allows for efficient and stable flow, minimizing turbulence and maximizing the efficiency of blood transportation within the circulatory system. Understanding laminar flow is essential in fields like kinesiology and physiology, as it relates to how blood circulates and delivers oxygen and nutrients effectively to various tissues during physical activity.