I want to understand this equation - Fluid Mechanics

Click For Summary

Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around understanding the coefficient of compressibility or bulk modulus of elasticity (κ) as presented in Fluid Mechanics. Participants are exploring the relationship between two equations: the differential form (2-12) and the finite difference approximation (2-13), seeking clarity on the underlying concepts and necessary mathematical foundations.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory
  • Technical explanation
  • Homework-related

Main Points Raised

  • One participant seeks to understand the transition from equation (2-12) to equation (2-13) and expresses a need for foundational knowledge in partial derivatives.
  • Another participant confirms that equation (2-13) serves as a finite difference approximation to equation (2-12) and questions the original poster's familiarity with approximating derivatives using finite differences.
  • A subsequent reply indicates a lack of understanding regarding how to approximate derivatives and asks for clarification on the definition of the derivative of a function.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

The discussion remains unresolved, with participants expressing varying levels of understanding regarding the mathematical concepts involved, particularly in relation to derivatives and their approximations.

Contextual Notes

Participants have not yet established a common understanding of the mathematical principles necessary to fully grasp the equations discussed, indicating potential gaps in foundational knowledge.

Alexanddros81
Messages
177
Reaction score
4
Hi all!
I have started reading Fluid Mechanics at my own pace (no university study)
and really I would like to grasp the ideas behind it.

So I have Fluid Mechanics by Cengel - 4th edition.
At page 45 the coefficient of compressibility or bulk modulus of elasticity (κ) is introduced.

##κ = V(\frac {\partial P} {\partial V})_T = ρ(\frac {\partial P} {\partial ρ})_T## (Pa) (2-12)

It can also be expressed approximately in terms of finite changes as

##κ = - \frac {ΔP} {ΔV/V} = \frac {ΔP} {Δρ/ρ}## (T = constant) (2-13)

I want to understand equation (2-12) and how it gets equation (2-13).
Obviously I would need to revise partial derivatives.
What else would I need to Know in order to understand these equations?
Your insight would be appreciated.
 
Physics news on Phys.org
Eqns. 13 is the finite difference approximation to Eqn. 2-12. Do you know how to approximate derivatives of a function using finite differences?
 
Chestermiller said:
Eqns. 13 is the finite difference approximation to Eqn. 2-12. Do you know how to approximate derivatives of a function using finite differences?

I don't know. What should I be looking at?
 
Alexanddros81 said:
I don't know. What should I be looking at?
What is the definition of the derivative of f(x) with respect to x?
 

Similar threads

  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
  • · Replies 18 ·
Replies
18
Views
2K
  • · Replies 11 ·
Replies
11
Views
2K
  • · Replies 5 ·
Replies
5
Views
5K
  • · Replies 1 ·
Replies
1
Views
2K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
1K
  • · Replies 3 ·
Replies
3
Views
2K
  • · Replies 7 ·
Replies
7
Views
3K
  • · Replies 6 ·
Replies
6
Views
2K
  • · Replies 8 ·
Replies
8
Views
2K