Introduction to Fluid Dynamics

Catalog description

As the birthplace of modern fluid dynamics, New York University has a long-standing history in the theoretical, experimental, and numerical study of the physics of fluids. The founder of the Courant Institute – Richard Courant – is known for starting some of the earliest endeavors in fluid dynamics research at NYU. Following this decades old tradition, we will systematically introduce the concepts of fluid dynamics including the formalism of continuum mechanics; conservation of mass, energy, and momentum in a fluid; the Euler and Navier-Stokes equations; and viscosity and vorticity. Furthermore, we will discuss the applications of fluid dynamics including heavier-than-air flight, the flow of blood in the human body, and the swimming of bacteria. Prerequisite: A grade of C or higher in MATH-SHU 151 (Multivariable Calculus) or MATH-SHU 201 (Honors Calculus) or PHYS-SHU 106 (Mathematical Physics). Fulfillment: Math additional Math elective; Physics elective.