4. Continuity Equations
This chapter focuses on the mass conservation equation, exploring its derivation through the analysis of infinitely small control volumes. It emphasizes the application of Taylor series expansions in understanding velocity and density fields and discusses the continuity equations in both Cartesian and cylindrical coordinates. Additionally, it differentiates between compressible and incompressible flows, providing insights into practical applications such as internal combustion engines.
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Sections
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What we have learnt
- Mass conservation is articulated through the continuity equation, highlighting the balancing of mass influx and outflux.
- The importance of applying Taylor series for approximating functions related to velocity and mass flux in small control volumes.
- The difference in behavior between steady compressible and incompressible flows regarding mass storage and flow disturbances.
Key Concepts
- -- Continuity Equation
- A fundamental equation in fluid mechanics that expresses the principle of mass conservation in fluid flow.
- -- Taylor Series Expansion
- A mathematical series that approximates functions by polynomials, allowing for the analysis of fluid properties at small scales.
- -- Compressible Flow
- A type of fluid flow where density changes are significant in response to pressure variations.
- -- Incompressible Flow
- Flow where density remains constant, leading to simplifications in analysis and calculations.
- -- Divergence
- A vector operation that represents the magnitude of a source or sink at a given point in a flowing fluid field.
Additional Learning Materials
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