What is the equation for approximating flooding rate for a below-waterline hole?

The equation for approximating the flooding rate for a below-waterline hole involves the use of the hole's diameter and the height of the water above the hole. The correct formula accounts for the factors influencing how water enters a vessel through the opening.

In this context, the coefficient of 5.67 in the equation represents empirical data that takes into account the dynamics of water flow, specifically the velocity of the water entering through the hole. This coefficient, derived from various studies and practical applications, reflects the impact of gravitational force and hydrodynamic principles on the flooding rate.

The use of the diameter squared is significant because, as the size of the hole increases, the flow rate increases non-linearly, making it crucial to square the diameter in the equation. The square root of the height below the waterline is included to account for the increased pressure exerted by the water column as the height increases, which results in a higher inflow rate.

Thus, the chosen equation effectively captures the essential physics of how water flows into an enclosed space through an opening located below the waterline, providing a reliable approximation for flooding rates.