Computational fluid dynamics: steady 2D flow

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around a homework problem related to computational fluid dynamics (CFD), specifically focusing on steady 2D flow and the interpretation of velocity components based on given diagrams. Participants are attempting to clarify their understanding of the relationships between velocity components and potential functions.

Discussion Character

  • Homework-related
  • Conceptual clarification
  • Debate/contested

Main Points Raised

  • The original poster expresses confusion regarding the interpretation of velocity directions based on the values in the diagrams, concluding that velocity components must be directed "up" and "to the right" based on observed values.
  • Another participant suggests that the task involves finding the y velocity components at the centers of horizontal faces and x velocity components at the centers of vertical faces, and then averaging these to determine the velocity components at the center of the cell.
  • A participant questions the solution provided, stating that the reasoning behind the conclusions drawn (that "Ψtop>Ψbottom" implies "U is to the right" and "Ψright>Ψleft" implies "V is down") seems counterintuitive and lacks a clear basis.
  • The same participant reiterates their confusion about the solution's reasoning, providing the mathematical expressions for velocity components as context.
  • One participant expresses relief and understanding after receiving clarification from another participant.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants do not appear to reach a consensus on the interpretation of the velocity components and the reasoning behind the solution. Confusion and differing viewpoints on the problem's approach remain evident.

Contextual Notes

Some participants express uncertainty about the assumptions underlying the solution and the definitions of the terms used, indicating that further clarification may be necessary to fully understand the problem.

Feodalherren
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1. Homework Statement
cfd.png


Homework Equations


CFD

The Attempt at a Solution


I'm a bit confused by this question.

So at first what I do for the problem on the left, I find the changes in the velocities in X and and Y on all four sides.

I notice that the values on the diagram to the left are higher on top than they are on the bottom, therefore I conclude that v must be "up".
I also notice that the values are higher on the right than they are on the left, therefore I conclude that u is to the right.

For the diagram on the right: I notice that bottom > top, therefore v is down.
Right > left, therefore u is to the right.Are these assumptions correct?

After that it's a fairly simple problem but this first step has me confused as to what I'm supposed to be doing.
 
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I think what they want you to do is to find the y velocity components at the centers of the horizontal faces, and the x velocity components at the centers of the vertical faces, and then average to get the velocity components at the center of the cell.

Chet
 
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I don't understand. The solution says "Ψtop>Ψbottom, therefore U is to the right" and "Ψright>Ψleft therefore V is down".
This is completely counter intuitive and seems to be taken out of the thin air. What are they basing this on?
 
Feodalherren said:
I don't understand. The solution says "Ψtop>Ψbottom, therefore U is to the right" and "Ψright>Ψleft therefore V is down".
This is completely counter intuitive and seems to be taken out of the thin air. What are they basing this on?
$$v_x=\frac{\partial \psi}{\partial y}$$
$$v_y=-\frac{\partial \psi}{\partial x}$$
 
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That makes a million times more sense. Thanks.
 

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