11.1.4. Recap of Fluid Kinematics

Try these first

1. 1.

   Define vorticity and its significance in fluid mechanics.

   Hint

   Think about how it relates to smooth versus turbulent flows.

2. 2.

   What are streamlines?

   Hint

   Consider paths traced out by particles.

3. 3.

   What is vorticity?

   • A measure of fluid density
   • A measure of fluid rotation
   • A measure of flow speed

   Hint

   Relates to how 'swirly' the fluid is.

4. 4.

   True or False: All fluid flows are rotational.

   • True
   • False

   Hint

   Remember the definition of irrotational flow.

5. 5.

   Design a flow visualization experiment using the Hele-Shaw apparatus to investigate the effect of an obstacle shape on flow patterns.

   Hint

   Consider both simple shapes (like circles) and complex ones (like airfoils) for contrast.

6. 6.

   Given a velocity field, calculate the conditions under which the flow is incompressible and determine the vorticity vector.

   Hint

   What does the continuity equation imply for your total derivatives?