Fluid Mechanics

Fluid Mechanics with a 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, followed by a short video clip proving the context for the formulation and calculations that are to be explained in the lecture. For example, at the start of a lecture on the 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 given out at the beginning of each topic. The notes include visual images, as well as a brief note on the historical perspective 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.