Understanding Fluid Resistance & Velocity

In summary, fluid resistance is dependent on velocity and can be determined through experiments or by looking it up. It is likely a power series expansion with the linear term being the most significant contributor. In the case of turbulent current, the v^2 term is related to the kinetic energy of the fluid whirls.
  • #1
newton1
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fluid resistance

how to know the fluid resistance is depend on [tex] v [/tex] or [tex] v^2 [/tex] ??
 
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  • #2
Are you asking why fluid resistance is velocity dependent? Or are you asking how to determine whether the dependence goes linear or whether it goes quadratic with velocity?
 
  • #3


Originally posted by Newton1
how to know the fluid resistance is depend on [tex] v [/tex] or [tex] v^2 [/tex] ??

Well, you could look it up. Or you could run some experiments. A simple experiment might use a tub or water and a submerged block of wood, with a spring or rubber band providing a measurable force to move the block, and a stopwatch.

Experiments in the tub are always fun.
 
  • #4
I'm going to guess it depends on [tex]v^1[/tex]... let us know when you find out. :smile:
 
  • #5
It is almost certainly a power series expansion in powers of velocity, with the linear term being the most important contributor. In other words:

[itex] F(v) = a v + bv^2 + cv^4 + ...[/itex]

It would be a fun experiment to determine a, b, c,...
 
  • #6
The [tex]v^2[/tex] in the formula for turbulent current is an energy thing: the kinetic energy of the fluid whirls goes with [tex]v^2[/tex], and energy equals force times deplacement.
 

What is fluid resistance?

Fluid resistance is the force that opposes the motion of an object as it moves through a fluid, such as air or water. It is caused by the friction between the object's surface and the fluid molecules.

What factors affect fluid resistance?

The factors that affect fluid resistance include the density and viscosity of the fluid, the size and shape of the object, and the velocity of the object.

What is the relationship between fluid resistance and velocity?

The relationship between fluid resistance and velocity is inverse. As the velocity of an object increases, the fluid resistance also increases. This means that the faster an object moves through a fluid, the more resistance it will experience.

How does understanding fluid resistance help in designing objects for specific purposes?

Understanding fluid resistance is crucial in designing objects for specific purposes because it allows scientists and engineers to calculate the amount of resistance an object will experience and make necessary adjustments to optimize its performance. For example, understanding fluid resistance is important in designing efficient airplanes or swimwear.

What are some real-life applications of fluid resistance?

Some real-life applications of fluid resistance include designing aerodynamic cars and airplanes, creating efficient propellers for boats, and improving the speed and performance of athletes through specialized swimwear. It also plays a crucial role in the design of pipes and pumps for fluid transportation systems.

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