Courses Best math courses for fluid dynamics?

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For students interested in fluid dynamics and structural interactions, particularly in the context of ships and ocean research, several advanced math courses are recommended. Key subjects include Partial Differential Equations (PDE), which are essential for modeling fluid behavior, and Numerical Analysis, crucial for computational simulations. Continuum Mechanics is also highlighted as a valuable course, often offered through Mechanical Engineering or Materials Science departments. Additionally, a solid understanding of Differential Geometry can enhance knowledge in PDEs. Asymptotic Analysis and Perturbation Theory are emphasized as particularly beneficial, with perturbation methods being regarded as vital skills for scientists in the field.
adam_t
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Hello Physics Forums,

I am going into 2nd year physics and am thinking about taking some additional math courses. My interests lay with ships and the ocean. What math courses would be most useful for research in fluid dynamics and interactions with structures?

Thanks,
Adam
 
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Partial Differential Equations...

Numerical Analysis...
 
adam_t said:
Hello Physics Forums,

I am going into 2nd year physics and am thinking about taking some additional math courses. My interests lay with ships and the ocean. What math courses would be most useful for research in fluid dynamics and interactions with structures?

Thanks,
Adam

Continuum mechanics, usually taught through the Mech E or Mat Sci departments.
 
Dr Transport said:
Partial Differential Equations...

Numerical Analysis...
I think that also a good knowledge of differential geometry can help with the PDE, it's really natural for someone who need to know a lot on PDE and analysis to learn also DG.
 
As a fluid dynamicist myself, I can recommend that you take as many asymptotic analysis and perturbation theory courses as you can. I keep saying this to all my colleagues, that perturbation methods are one of the most useful skills a scientist can have.
 
Hey, I am Andreas from Germany. I am currently 35 years old and I want to relearn math and physics. This is not one of these regular questions when it comes to this matter. So... I am very realistic about it. I know that there are severe contraints when it comes to selfstudy compared to a regular school and/or university (structure, peers, teachers, learning groups, tests, access to papers and so on) . I will never get a job in this field and I will never be taken serious by "real"...
Yesterday, 9/5/2025, when I was surfing, I found an article The Schwarzschild solution contains three problems, which can be easily solved - Journal of King Saud University - Science ABUNDANCE ESTIMATION IN AN ARID ENVIRONMENT https://jksus.org/the-schwarzschild-solution-contains-three-problems-which-can-be-easily-solved/ that has the derivation of a line element as a corrected version of the Schwarzschild solution to Einstein’s field equation. This article's date received is 2022-11-15...
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