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III: Computational Fluid Dynamics

  • Page ID
    93599
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    The third part of this course considers a problem in computational fluid dynamics (cfd). Namely, we consider the steady two-dimensional flow past a rectangle or a circle.

    • 14: The Governing Equations
      This page covers the governing equations of fluid dynamics, emphasizing multi-variable calculus, vector algebra, and key concepts like vector fields and related theorems. It derives the continuity equation, highlighting mass conservation for incompressible fluids.
    • 15: Laminar Flow
      This page explains laminar flows, highlighting three types: Plane Couette flow, where fluid moves between two plates, creating a linear velocity profile; Channel (Poiseuille) flow, characterized by a parabolic velocity profile due to a pressure gradient; and Pipe flow, which involves fluid in a circular pipe, also displaying a parabolic velocity profile. In all cases, maximum velocity is found at the center.
    • 16: Stream Function, Vorticity Equations
      This page covers essential concepts in fluid dynamics, primarily focusing on stream functions and vorticity. It explains how streamlines relate to fluid flow, the significance of the vorticity as the curl of the velocity field, and derives the governing vorticity equation from the Navier-Stokes equations.
    • 17: Flow Past an Obstacle
      This page covers computational fluid dynamics for steady, two-dimensional flow past obstacles, particularly rectangles and circles. It outlines the appropriate coordinate systems, key dimensionless parameters, and boundary conditions, including no-slip and no-penetration conditions. Various numerical methods, such as finite difference approximations, the red-black Gauss-Seidel method, and Newton's method for nonlinear equations, are discussed for achieving convergence and stability.

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    This page titled III: Computational Fluid Dynamics is shared under a CC BY 3.0 license and was authored, remixed, and/or curated by Jeffrey R. Chasnov via source content that was edited to the style and standards of the LibreTexts platform.