Fluid Mechanics

Fluid Mechanics with Historical Perspective is part of a series of modules covering the broader subject of thermodynamics at the University of Bath. At the start of each hour-long lecture, the tutor gives a 15-minute input on the aspect of discoveries and developments related to flight. This historical background usually consists of a five-minute PowerPoint presentation, 1 by a short video clip proving the context for the formulate and calculations that are to be explained in the lecture. For example, at the start of a lecture on compressible flow of gases, the presentation is on the story of the first supersonic flight. The tutor developed 24 ’mini-history lectures' to accompany the lecture series which he hopes will make this largely theoretical-based subject more interesting for his students. The lectures are supported by a set of notes 2 out at the beginning of each topic. The notes include visual images, as well as a brief note on the historical 3 shown and the theoretical concepts explored. The notes are not, however, complete and students are expected to bring them to the lecture each week to fill in the blanks.