Fluid Mechanics: streamlines for a flow

In summary, the streamlines for a flow with velocity components u=c(x^2-y^2) and v=-2cxy are given by the equation x^2*y-y^3/3=constant. The flow is parallel to the y-axis when x = y and the fluid is stationary when u = v = 0.
  • #1
yrael
7
0

Homework Statement


Show that the streamlines for a flow whose velocity components are u=c(x^2-y^2) and v=-2cxy, where c is a constant, are given by the equation x^2*y-y^3/3=constant. At which point (points) is the flow parallel to the y axis? At which point (points is the fluid stationary?


Homework Equations


dy/dx=v/u
u=c(x^2-y^2)
x^2*y-y^3/3=constant
v=-2cxy


The Attempt at a Solution


dy/dx=v/u=(-2cxy)/(c(x^2-y^2))=-2xy/(x^2-y^2)

intergral dy(x^2-y^2)=intergral -2xy dx
x^2y-1/3*y^3=-x^2y
ans y=sqrt(6)x?

How do i show what point is parallel to y-axis and what point is fluid stationary?
 
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  • #2
It is parallel to the y-axis when dx/dy = 0, or, from the equations, when x = y. The fluid is stationary when u = v = 0.
 

1. What are streamlines in fluid mechanics?

Streamlines are imaginary lines that show the direction of fluid flow at any given point in a fluid. They are always tangent to the velocity vector at any point and do not cross each other.

2. How are streamlines useful in understanding fluid flow?

Streamlines help us visualize and understand the patterns and behavior of fluid flow. They can also indicate the presence of obstacles or changes in flow direction.

3. What factors affect the shape of streamlines?

The shape of streamlines is affected by the velocity of the fluid, the viscosity of the fluid, and the presence of obstacles or changes in flow direction.

4. How do streamlines differ from pathlines and streaklines?

Pathlines show the actual path of a fluid particle over time, while streaklines show the path of all particles that have passed through a specific point. Streamlines, on the other hand, represent the instantaneous direction of fluid flow at any given point.

5. Can streamlines be used to calculate the velocity of a fluid?

No, streamlines do not provide information about the velocity or speed of the fluid. They only show the direction of flow at a specific point in time.

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