Course content

The subject is taught every second year, autumn term, next time autumn 2021, 2023 and so on.
It covers an array of subjects in fluid mechanics: Fundamental laws of conservation for Newtonian fluid flow. Complex potential theory, classical analysis for ideal flow around bodies, the Kutta-Joukowski transformation and the potential theory of airfoils, conformal mapping. Vortex dynamics and conserved quantities of vortices. Fundamentals of stability analysis, classical analysis of important instabilities in fluid flow. Linear theory of surface waves, dispersion, group and phase velocities, wave motion on droplet surfaces and in forced systems, initial value problems, viscous damping and ship waves.

Learning outcome

Knowledge: The candidate will acquire knowledge of an array of topics in flow mechanics. Advanced knowledge of potential theory, as well as a fundamental understanding of the mechanics of incompressible flow. Understanding of the fundamental conservation laws of fluid mechanics and how the theory of more specialised branches derives from these. Knowledge of several practical applications of the theory covered.

Skills: The candidate knows and is able to utilise solution strategies for a variety of problems in advanced fluid mechanics such as potential solutions, Fourier methods and strategies of linearisation.

General competence: The candidate has achieved a broad understanding of fluid mechanics applicable to practical problems in technological and physical research and development.

Learning methods and activities

Weekly meetings for lectures and/or work on exercises. Exercises for each chapter with extensive use of MATLAB. If the number of students is low (typically 5 or less), the course may be given as self-study.

Further on evaluation

The assessment form is oral exam, with preparation time to work on given exercises. Re-taking of the oral exam after a failed attempt may be arranged at a time no less than 1 month later, assigned by the lecturer.

Recommended previous knowledge

Mathematical background corresponding to Calculus 1-4. Basic fluid mechanics, including differential flow analysis. Knowing some fluid mechanics theory beyond introductory level is recommended.

Required previous knowledge

Mathematical background equivalent to Calculus 1-4 covering in particular Fourier analysis, basic complex analysis and linear ordinary and differential equations.

Course materials

Exerpts from Graebel: "Advanced fluid mechanics" Academic Press 2006.
Compendia handed out during the course. All course material will be available through Blackboard.

Credit reductions