Fluid Dynamics — A/L Physics

What must I remember about Fluid Dynamics?

• Ideal Fluid Characteristics: Steady (streamline) flow, Incompressible (constant density ρ), Non-viscous (zero internal fluid friction), Irrotational.
• Equation of Continuity: Conservation of mass in fluid flow: Volume flow rate Q = A * v = Constant; A1 * v1 = A2 * v2 (smaller cross-section implies higher flow velocity).
• Bernoulli's Principle: Conservation of energy per unit volume in streamline flow of an ideal fluid: P + (1/2)ρv² + ρgh = Constant.
• Bernoulli Terms: Static Pressure P; Dynamic Pressure (1/2)ρv²; Hydrostatic Pressure ρgh.

Test yourself (1 minute)

1. Torricelli's Law of Efflux

   Speed of efflux from an orifice at depth h below open liquid surface: v = √(2gh).

2. Venturi Meter

   Measures volume flow rate in pipe: Q = A1 A2 √[ (2 ΔP) / (ρ (A1² - A2²)) ] where ΔP = h ρ_m g.

3. Aerodynamic Lift

   Higher fluid velocity over curved upper airfoil surface creates reduced static pressure, producing upward net lift force.

Practise Fluid Dynamics questions today

Source: NIE G.C.E. (A/L) Physics Resource Book - Unit 2: Mechanics & Fluid Dynamics

What should I study first?

What comes next?

Next in the syllabus

Where does Fluid Dynamics fit in the syllabus?

Unit 2.7 · Year 1 · Term 1