PHY2033 : Fluid Dynamics
- Offered for Year: 2020/21
- Module Leader(s): Dr Andrew Baggaley
- Owning School: Mathematics, Statistics and Physics
- Teaching Location: Newcastle City Campus
Semesters
| Semester 2 Credit Value: | 10 |
| ECTS Credits: | 5.0 |
Aims
To introduce the fundamental concepts and governing equations of fluid mechanics, using
mathematical techniques to analyse simple flow problems for an inviscid (frictionless) fluid.
Module Summary
Fluid dynamics plays a central role in many natural phenomena. As we breathe, gas flows in and out of our lungs, whilst our heart pumps blood around the body. Without a proper understanding of large-scale fluid flows in the Earth’s atmosphere and oceans, it would be impossible for meteorologists to produce reliable weather forecasts. On yet larger scales, the complex motions in the Earth’s molten iron core are responsible for sustaining the terrestrial magnetic field. The principles of fluid dynamics can also be used to explain aerodynamic lift, whilst engineers need to be able to model fluid flows around solid bodies (like tall buildings) and along pipes.
This module will introduce the concept of a fluid, and the ways in which the motions of such a system
can be described. The main focus of this module will be on the dynamics of inviscid (frictionless)
fluids. Even with such an assumption, it is not possible to write down a general solution of the
governing equations, but it is possible to make certain simplifying assumptions to deduce the
properties of certain flows. In many respects, this module is a sequel to vector calculus (MAS2801).
Many of the ideas that were introduced in that module, including the differential operators and
integral theorems, will be used extensively.
Outline Of Syllabus
Continuum approximation.
• Kinematics: Streamlines, pathlines, steady and time-dependent flows, convective derivative,
vorticity and circulation.
• Governing equations and elementary dynamics: Conservation of mass, the continuity equation and
incompressibility, Euler’s equation, Bernoulli’s streamline theorem.
• Irrotational flows and potential theory: Laplace’s equation, principle of superposition, simple
examples including sources, sinks and line vortices, flow around a cylinder and sphere.
• Linear water waves: Surface waves (deep and shallow), dispersive waves, group velocity.
Teaching Methods
Please note that module leaders are reviewing the module teaching and assessment methods for Semester 2 modules, in light of the Covid-19 restrictions. There may also be a few further changes to Semester 1 modules. Final information will be available by the end of August 2020 in for Semester 1 modules and the end of October 2020 for Semester 2 modules.
Teaching Activities
| Category | Activity | Number | Length | Student Hours | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Scheduled Learning And Teaching Activities | Lecture | 4 | 1:00 | 4:00 | Present in Person |
| Scheduled Learning And Teaching Activities | Lecture | 5 | 1:00 | 5:00 | Synchronous On Line Material |
| Structured Guided Learning | Lecture materials | 18 | 1:00 | 18:00 | Non Synchronous Activities |
| Guided Independent Study | Assessment preparation and completion | 47 | 1:00 | 47:00 | N/A |
| Guided Independent Study | Assessment preparation and completion | 15 | 1:00 | 15:00 | N/A |
| Structured Guided Learning | Structured non-synchronous discussion | 9 | 1:00 | 9:00 | N/A |
| Scheduled Learning And Teaching Activities | Drop-in/surgery | 2 | 1:00 | 2:00 | Office Hour or Discussion Board Activity |
| Total | 100:00 |
Jointly Taught With
| Code | Title |
|---|---|
| MAS2805 | Python and Fluid Dynamics |
Teaching Rationale And Relationship
Non-synchronous online materials are used for the delivery of theory and explanation of methods, illustrated with examples, and for giving general feedback on assessed work. Present-in-person and synchronous online sessions are used to help develop the students’ abilities at applying the theory to solving problems and to identify and resolve specific queries raised by students, and to allow students to receive individual feedback on marked work. Students who cannot attend a present-in-person session will be provided with an alternative activity allowing them to access the learning outcomes of that session. In addition, office hours/discussion board activity will provide an opportunity for more direct contact between individual students and the lecturer: a typical student might spend a total of one or two hours over the course of the module, either individually or as part of a group.
Student should consult their timetable for up-to-sate delivery information.
Assessment Methods
Please note that module leaders are reviewing the module teaching and assessment methods for Semester 2 modules, in light of the Covid-19 restrictions. There may also be a few further changes to Semester 1 modules. Final information will be available by the end of August 2020 in for Semester 1 modules and the end of October 2020 for Semester 2 modules.
The format of resits will be determined by the Board of Examiners
Other Assessment
| Description | Semester | When Set | Percentage | Comment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Written exercise | 2 | M | 5 | N/A |
| Written exercise | 2 | M | 5 | N/A |
| Written exercise | 2 | A | 90 | Alternative Assessment |
Assessment Rationale And Relationship
A substantial formal test is appropriate for the assessment of the material in this module. The course assessments will allow the students to develop their problem solving techniques, to practise the methods learnt in the module, to assess their progress and to receive feedback; these assessments have a secondary formative purpose as well as their primary summative purpose.
Reading Lists
Timetable
- Timetable Website: www.ncl.ac.uk/timetable/
- PHY2033's Timetable