Avg Value Of A Function: Word Problem

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves determining the average velocity of blood flow in a vessel as a function of the distance from the central axis, with specific focus on integrating to find the average over a defined interval. It also requires comparing this average velocity to the maximum velocity within the same context.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss setting up the integral for calculating the average velocity and question the integration limits. There is a focus on identifying constants and variables in the equation. Additionally, there are inquiries about determining the maximum velocity and the conditions under which it occurs.

Discussion Status

The discussion has progressed with some participants successfully solving part A and seeking guidance on part B. There is an ongoing exploration of the relationship between average and maximum velocities, with suggestions to visualize the function to better understand where the maximum occurs.

Contextual Notes

Participants are navigating through the implications of constants versus variables in the equations and are encouraged to consider the physical interpretation of fluid dynamics in the context of the problem.

RedBarchetta
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Homework Statement


http://www.webassign.net/www20/symImages/2/1/9a952b874da3363f9e9d0b7744eaff.gif
The velocity v of blood that flows in a blood vessel with radius R and length l at a distance r from the central axis is v(r), where P is the pressure difference between the ends of the vessel and η is the viscosity of the blood.

(a)Find the average velocity v_ave (with respect to r) over the interval 0 ≤ r ≤ R.

(b)Compare the average velocity v_ave with the maximum velocity v_max.(v_ave/v_max)

So I need to set the problem up, into an integral form, to find the avg velocity for part A. The integration limits for the integral should be from zero to Big R, multiplied by (1 over big R) to get our average value. Now the problem is, every thing in the equation except the (1/4) is a variable. How would I even begin to integrate this?

Thanks.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
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The only variable is r. The rest of those symbols are constants.
 
Ah. Well now I've solved part A, how would go about part B?

(a) is PR^{3}/6nlR

I have V_ave, what is V max?
 
You have a formula for v as a function of r. At what value of r is it maximum?
 
So if you make the equation v(R) instead of v(r), then the (R^{2}-R^{2}) = equal zero, so V_max is zero?
 
Why did you do that? Think of it this way - the velocity at which the fluid flows depends on the distance from the center of the pipe. At a particular value of that distance, the velocity is maximum. Try drawing a picture. Plot v as a function of r. Also, first try to guess what it should be. Where do you think the water is flowing fastest? Near the center? Near the edge? Somewhere in between?
 
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