Units

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Sample subject outline - Semester 1 2013

Note: Subject outlines often change before the semester begins. Below is a sample outline.

Rationale

Fluid flows occur in many processes in industry, the environment, biology and medicine. To study some of the important problems associated with these areas requires an understanding of the dynamics of fluid flows, the role of viscosity, and how some of the simple solutions of the governing equations (the Navier-Stokes equations) can help interpreting more complicated problems. Combined with some computational techniques, knowledge of the mathematics of fluid flow will provide important skills for anyone seeking to work in the areas of industrial and engineering related disciplines or the bio-medial sciences. It will also provide fundamental knowledge for anyone aiming to conduct research in areas where fluid flows occur.

Aims

This subject area illustrates important mathematical modelling ideas, such as the simplification of a complicated set of equations in different physical settings, and reinforces previously learned techniques for solving ordinary and partial differential equations. This unit also aims to develop your skills in the physical interpretation of the mathematical solutions.

Objectives

After successfully completing this unit you should be able to:

1. Select appropriate mathematical techniques for the simplification of the governing equations of motion for a given applied problem and to solve the simplified equations.
2. Interpret mathematical solutions graphically by using computer software packages and knowledge of the physical problem being modelled.
3. Articulate and communicate ideas (written and oral) using high-level mathematical notation and language.

The following generic postgraduate capabilities are addressed by the specific unit objectives above:

(a) To draw on a range of advanced knowledge and analytic skills (objectives 1,2,3).
(b) To develop academic writing and oral communication skills (objective 3).
(c) To develop problem-solving skills (objectives 1,2,3).
(d) To develop high-level abilities in the use of computer software packages appropriate to the discipline (objective 2

Content

Key topics covered include: Formulation of Navier-Stokes equation (Cartesian tensors, continuity equation, the stress tensor, Navier-Stokes equations for a viscous fluid, scaling and the Reynolds number); Unidirectional flows (exact solutions of the Navier-Stokes equations, shear flow, Poiseuille flow (flow in a tube) , oscillating flows).

Other topics: A selection from: Thin-film flows, Low Reynolds number flows, similarity solutions, boundary layers, computational fluid dynamics, flow in porous media, visco-elastic fluids, water wave theory.

Approaches to Teaching and Learning

An overview lecture will be given each week. However you will be expected to do more reading outside of class than would normally be expected from an undergraduate unit. Reading material and selected exercises will be provided and should be studied prior to each class. You will have opportunities to apply your knowledge in problem-solving exercises with guidance from the lecturer (either in class or in informal consultation outside of class times).

Assessment

The assessment items in this unit are designed to determine your level of competency, measured against criteria, in meeting the unit outcomes while providing you with a range of tasks with increasing levels of skill development and difficulty.Formative feedback will be provided for the in-semester assessment tasks by way of written comments on the assessment items, student perusal of the marked assessment piece and informal interview as required.

Summative feedback will be provided throughout the semester with progressive posting of results via Blackboard.

Assessment name: Problem Solving Task
Description: (Formative and summative) - A number of assignments that extend the unit material will be given. The assignments will be returned to you with comments and marks. These assignments may involve the use of appropriate computer software to visualise results and to present thee results as a professional report.
Relates to objectives: 1, 2 and 3.
Weight: 40%
Internal or external: Internal
Group or individual: Individual
Due date: Progressive

Assessment name: Examination (Theory)
Description: (Summative) - A 3 hour examination that covers the core material of the unit with a range of clearly defined questions.
Relates to objectives: 1, 2 and 3.
Weight: 60%
Internal or external: Internal
Group or individual: Individual
Due date: Exam Period

Academic Honesty

QUT is committed to maintaining high academic standards to protect the value of its qualifications. To assist you in assuring the academic integrity of your assessment you are encouraged to make use of the support materials and services available to help you consider and check your assessment items. Important information about the university's approach to academic integrity of assessment is on your unit Blackboard site.

A breach of academic integrity is regarded as Student Misconduct and can lead to the imposition of penalties.

Resource materials

Texts:
There is no single nominated text for this unit. Printed notes will be provided on Blackboard.

References:
Appropriately detailed, fully referenced reading material will be issued at the beginning of the semester and throughout the semester, as appropriate.

Risk assessment statement

While you are working on this unit you should be mindful of the Health and Safety requirements of the university, your workplace and other relevant locations as appropriate. Further information on health and safety at QUT can be found at site http: //www.hrd.qut.edu.au/healthsafety/healthsafe/index.jsp.

Disclaimer - Offer of some units is subject to viability, and information in these Unit Outlines is subject to change prior to commencement of semester.

Last modified: 05-Feb-2013