Fluid flow between parallel plates

1. Jan 24, 2009

hamurabi

1. The problem statement, all variables and given/known data

The velocity distribution for laminar flow between parallel plates is given by
u/umax = 1-(2y/h)2
where h is the distance separating the plates and the origin is placed midway between the plates.
Consider flow of water at 15 0C with maximum speed of umax=0.05 m/s and h=5 mm. Calculate the
force on a 0.3 m2 section of the lower plate and give its direction.

2. Relevant equations

Given in the problem and perhaps P = F/A

3. The attempt at a solution

Well I know that the maximum velocity will occur at the origin i.e y=0 and that the velocity at the plates is zero. So the maximal force would occur also at the origin - Would I have to get the y-component of the velocity?

I am guessing that the temperature is given so that we can get density (0.999) and viscosity (1.78 cp) from tables - or this may just be a red herring

Now the thing I am having problems with is linking the velocity with an equation to get pressure so that I can calculate the force.

Any guidance would be much appreciated!