Introductory description

Fluid dynamics forms a core subject with applications in a number of disciplines including, engineering, nanotechnology, biology, medicine and geosciences. Principles of fluid dynamics serves as an anchor to describe natural phenomena by providing a common language and set of tools for describing, analyzing and understanding observations and experiments in such a diverse array of disciplines. Continuing on from MA3D1: Fluid dynamics, in this module we will study selected advanced topics in fluid dynamics that provides a core understanding of fluid dynamics phenomena.

Module aims

Outline syllabus

This is an indicative module outline only to give an indication of the sort of topics that may be covered. Actual sessions held may differ.

1. Vorticity dynamics
2. Complex fluids and non-Newtonian rheology
3. Lubrication theory
4. Stokes flow
5. Hydrodynamic stability
6. Computational fluid dynamics
7. Flow through porous media
8. Turbulence

Learning outcomes

By the end of the module, students should be able to:

• Apply and/or simplify the partial differential equations governing fluid flow.
• Solve the derived equations.
• Be able to translate the solution into a physical intuition for the underlying flow phenomenology.

Interdisciplinary

Fluid dynamics is a subject of interest in fields ranging from astronomy to nanotechnology in scale, and from medicine to engineering in application. The common framework provided by fluid dynamics binds the practitioners in a fellowship that transcends these disciplines.

Subject specific skills

Ability to apply and simplify the equations governing fluid flow.
Ability to model physical systems involving fluid flow.
Develop familiarity with different kinds of fluids.

Transferable skills

Ability to interpret observations and propose candidate explanations. Ability to translate scientific ideas into mathematical language and back. Ability to think creatively. Ability to discern the validity of a proposed explanation.