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Module

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

Module leaders are revising this content in light of the Covid 19 restrictions.
Revised and approved detail information will be available by 17 August.

Assessment Methods

Module leaders are revising this content in light of the Covid 19 restrictions.
Revised and approved detail information will be available by 17 August.

Reading Lists

Timetable