Interactive Self-Study Module: Properties of Fluids
Overview:
This module uses screencasts and an interactive simulation to describe what a fluid is and some of the important properties of fluids. Example problems allow the user to test themselves. Your retention of material in this module will increase if you write down reasons for your answers to ConcepTests, questions in screencasts, and questions to answer before using interactive simulations, and you try to solve the example problems before watching the screencast solutions. We suggest using the learning resources in the following order:
- Attempt to answer the multiple-choice ConcepTest and example problem before watching the screencasts or working with the simulations.
- Watch the screencasts that describe fluid properties and answer the question within the first screencast.
- Review important equations for properties of fluids.
- Use the interactive simulation to further understand capillary action.
- Try to solve the example problems before watching the solutions in the screencasts.
- Answer the ConcepTests.
- Look at the list of key points, but only after you try to list the key points yourself.
Motivation:
- Understanding properties of fluids is crucial for concepts later described in fluid dynamics.
- This module is intended for a fluid mechanics course.
Before studying this module, you should be able to:
- Apply the ideal gas law.
- Calculate vapor pressure.
After studying this module, you should be able to:
- Determine what can be considered a fluid.
- Identify what a shear stress is.
- Use and describe density, specific gravity, specific weight, the bulk modulus, vapor pressure, and surface tension in engineering applications.
- Calculate the height of capillary rise.