Fluid mechanics, as its name suggests, is a branch of applied mechanics. Its basis is the law of motion, declared by Newton. The concept is rational and is based on sound physical reasoning, mathematics, and the results of experiments.
By analytical means, it tries to derive equations of general nature and, if possible, represent these in dimensionless form. This is in contrast to empirical hydraulics, where certain reservations must be placed in the scope of application due to the limited experimental data for which the formula is established.
The text begins with a short historical note that serves as an introductory background. This is followed by four chapters on the presentation of the basic principles, which mainly incorporate both hydrostatic and dynamics. Topics include phenomena related to turbulence and rational theories for pipe resistance. The remaining chapters deal with the practical application of these principles. By devoting the last chapter to consideration of model testing, recognition is given to its increasing importance as an aid in hydraulic design.
Description
A list of textbooks on the subject of fluid mechanics (see appendix) at first glance seems to indicate that there is no shortage of suitable materials. However, the treatment is almost always very extensive, and with a degree of specialization that is in evitable in today’s engineering curriculum, books that mainly concern aspects of civil engineering must be required.
This was the purpose of the author in writing the current book and seven years of experience in undergraduate education. The culmination of more than10 years of engineering practice has been drawn.
The subject typically embraces fields covered in a complete hydraulics course at an undergraduate or comparable level. It provides the foundation that is needed before proceeding to a more specialized study in hydraulic engineering. Attempts have been made to bridge the gap between theory and practice without compromising on considering fundamentals. In this way, awareness of the value of a more sound and rational approach brought about by modem fluid mechanics is growing, so the book also provides a useful guide to practice.