Fluid Dynamics: Beyond the Basics

A fluid refers to a type of liquid, gas or other substance that constantly flows due to an external force or shear stress. Fluid dynamics is a branch of fluid mechanics that studies the flow of fluids such as liquids and gases. There are two main subdisciplines of fluid dynamics, namely, hydrodynamics and aerodynamics. Fluid dynamics can be used to study phenomena such as ocean currents, plate tectonics, evolution of stars, weather patterns and blood circulation. Wind turbines, air conditioning systems, rocket engines and oil pipelines are some of the significant technological applications of fluid dynamics. A fluid dynamics problem is normally solved by calculating different properties of the fluids such as flow density, velocity, temperature and pressure as functions of space and time. This book outlines the processes and applications of fluid dynamics in detail. It is appropriate for students seeking detailed information in this area as well as for experts.