Review of Basic Engineering Concepts

Abstract

“Fluid dynamics” implies fluid flow and associated forces described by vector equations, while convective heat transfer and species mass transfer are described by scalar transport equations. Specifically, this chapter reiterates some basic definitions and continuum mechanics concepts with an emphasis on how to describe standard fluid flow phenomena. Readers are encouraged to occasionally jump ahead to specific sections of Chaps. 2 and 3. After refreshing his/her knowledge base, the student should solve the assigned Homework Problems independently (see Sect. 1.5) in conjunction with Appendix A (see Table 1.1 for acquiring good study habits).

It should be noted that the material of Part A is an extension of the introductory chapters of the author’s “Biofluid Dynamics” text (CRC Press, Taylor & Francis Group, 2006; withpermission).