What describes smooth fluid flow that occurs in parallel layers without mixing?

Laminar flow is characterized by the smooth and orderly movement of fluid in parallel layers, where each layer slides past the adjacent one without mixing. This type of flow typically occurs at low velocities and in fluids with high viscosity. The streamlined patterns in laminar flow make it predictable and orderly, as the motion of the particles is parallel to one another.

In contrast, turbulent flow occurs at higher velocities and is marked by chaotic and irregular movements, leading to mixing of the fluid layers. Viscous flow refers to the flow of a fluid that has significant internal friction or viscosity, but does not specifically indicate whether the flow is laminar or turbulent. Calcified flow is not a standard term used in fluid dynamics, making laminar flow the only correct description of the smooth and parallel layered movement without mixing.