An Introduction to Fluid Mechanics

This book forms the basis of a one-semester introductory course in fluid mechanics for engineers and scientists. Students working with this text are expected to have a background in multivariable calculus, linear algebra, and differential equations; review of these topics as applied to fluid mechanics is provided in Chapter 1. Problem solving is taught by example throughout the text. We include numerous solved examples and end-of-chapter problems, and a complete solution manual is available for instructors.

Fluid mechanics can be a difficult subject. Nonlinear physics governs flow, and thus we often resort to a variety of simplifications to obtain solutions. Different simplifications are used under different conditions, making fluid mechanics intimidating, at least to a beginner. An Introduction to Fluid Mechanics presents the topic through a discovery process, as described in this preface, that mimics engineering practice. The process used seeks solutions by answering the following questions:

1. What is the problem?

2. What do we need to know, and do, to address the problem?

3. What is the solution to the problem?

4. What other problems/opportunities may be addressed now that we have solved this problem?

This organizational choice builds critical thinking skills by emphasizing the thought processes that lead to model development. The book is divided into four parts that answer these four questions for the study of fluid mechanics.