Fluid Mechanics Flashcards
What are fluid mechanics?
Forces acting on a body travelling through water or air
What is air resistance?
The force that acts on a body travelling through air
What is drag?
The force that acts on a body travelling through water
How does velocity affect air resistance?
Greater velocity means a greater air resistance; though velocity can’t be reduced to reduce air resistance
How does mass affect air resistance and drag?
Less mass means less energy is needed to create motion so less air resistance
What is front-cross sectional area?
The first point that air resistance will act on the body
How does front-cross sectional area affect air resistance and drag?
A smaller front-cross sectional area means less air resistance or drag
What is streamlining?
The creation of smooth air flow around an aerodynamic shape
How does streamlining and shape affect air resistance and drag?
More streamlined means a lower impact of air resistance and drag
How do surface characteristics affect air resistance or drag?
Smoother surface means less impact of air resistance or drag
What is a sporting example of reducing mass to reduce air resistance?
Carbon-fibre bike frame
What is a sporting example of using a smaller front-cross sectional area to reduce drag?
A swimmer’s fingers enter the water before the rest of their hand
What is a sporting example of becoming more streamlined to reduce air resistance?
A cyclist wears an aerofoil helmet
What is an example of using a smoother surface to reduce drag?
A swimmer wears a swimming cap
