Q1 L4-5 Properties of Fluids & Fluid Mechanics

Fluid

A substance capable of flowing, including liquids and gases.

Density

The measure of particle compaction.

Formula for density

ρ = m/V

Specific gravity (SG)

The relative ratio comparing the density of a fluid to the density of pure water.

Formula for specific gravity

SG = pfluid / pwater

Density of pure water

1.00 g/mL

Viscosity

The internal resistance to flow associated with fluid thickness

High viscosity

Greater resistance to flow

Pressure

Force distributed over an area

Formula for pressure

P = F/A

Hydrostatic pressure

The pressure exerted by a fluid at rest

Formula for hydrostatic pressure

P = ρgh

Unit of pressure

Pascal (Pa)

Another expression for Pascal

N/m²

Fluid mechanics

Study of the behavior of fluids at rest and in motion

Pascal's Principle Application

Hydraulic brakes, hydraulic lifts, and car jacks

Archimedes' Principle

An object immersed in a fluid experiences an upward force called buoyant force equal to the weight of the displaced fluid

Buoyant force

The upward force experienced by an object in a fluid

Determining whether an object floats or sinks

Buoyant force and weight

Examples of buoyancy applications

Ships floating, life jackets, and hot-air balloons