Mechanics

Steady (Laminar) Flow Flow where every particle passing a given point follows the same path, with velocity constant at that point over time. In laminar flow, fluid layers slide smoothly without mixing. Streamlines are parallel and do not cross. This occurs at low flow speeds or high viscosity. Example: slow, smooth flow of honey from a jar. Turbulent Flow Flow where fluid particles move in irregular, chaotic paths, with velocity varying randomly at a point. Turbulence involves eddies and vortices, increasing energy loss due to friction. It occurs at high flow speeds or low viscosity. Example: water rushing rapidly from a tap, appearing frothy and irregular. Ideal Fluid A theoretical fluid that is incompressible, non-viscous, and flows without turbulence. Real fluids have viscosity and compressibility, but the ideal fluid model simplifies analysis. It allows use of Bernoulli’s equation and the continuity equation. Example: air at low speeds can be approximated as an ideal fluid for many calculations.