Math Physics-Equation of Continuity

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Homework Help Overview

The problem involves the equation of continuity in fluid dynamics, specifically addressing the relationship between fluid density, velocity, and time derivatives. The original poster is tasked with demonstrating a mathematical relationship involving the total derivative of density and its connection to the equation of continuity.

Discussion Character

  • Exploratory, Conceptual clarification, Mathematical reasoning

Approaches and Questions Raised

  • Participants discuss how to express the total time derivative of density in terms of its partial derivatives. There are inquiries about the relevant equations of continuity and how to derive them, indicating a need for clarification on the definitions and applications of these equations.

Discussion Status

The discussion is ongoing, with participants exploring different interpretations of the problem. Some have offered guidance on deriving the equation of continuity, while others express uncertainty about the mathematical steps involved. There is no explicit consensus yet, but productive questions and suggestions are being raised.

Contextual Notes

Participants note confusion regarding the specific equation of continuity to use, as multiple forms exist. The original poster has indicated difficulty in understanding the mathematical derivation required for the problem.

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Homework Statement



PARTA:
Consider a fluid in which [tex]\rho[/tex] = [tex]\rho[/tex](x,y,z,t); that is the density varies from point to point and with time. The velocity of this fluid at a point is
v= (dx/dt, dy/dt, dz/ dt)
Show that
dp/dt = [tex]\partial[/tex]t[tex]\rho[/tex] + v [tex]\cdot[/tex] [tex]\nabla\rho[/tex]

PARTB:
Combine the above equation with the equation of continuity and prove that
[tex]\rho\nabla[/tex][tex]\cdot[/tex] v + d[tex]\rho[/tex] /dt = 0

I have been attempting this problem for over a week. If anyone can solve this problem or help me out I would really appreciate it!

(Between the [tex]\nabla[/tex] and v is a dot but I am not sure if it is showing up!)
 
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For part a, how'd you write the total time derivative of rho in terms of its partial derivatives?

For part b, what do you think the relevant equations are?
 
I used the symbols to write out rho with a subscript...is that what you meant?
That is the equation we have to show...so I have no clue how they got it mathematically.

For the second your suppose to use the equation of continuity...which I'm not sure which one they mean as I find various examples of it.
 
What I meant is this : suppose I have a function f(x,y). Can you write down the total derivative of f w.r.t x i.e df/dx in terms of the partial derivatives [tex]\partial_{x}f[/tex] and [tex]\partial_{y}f[/tex] ? If you can do that for f and x, go ahead and do it for rho and t.

If you aren't sure of which equation of continuity to use, why not let's go ahead and derive it! The key concept is conservation of mass. Let me know if you'd like a bit of help with that.
 

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