University of St Andrews

Key information

SCOTCAT credits : 15

ECTS credits : 7

Level : SCQF level 11

Semester: 2

Planned timetable: To be arranged.

Fluid dynamics is the study of all things that 'flow', whether they are liquids or gases. The underlying concepts and techniques taught in this course are of wide ranging use, finding application in such diverse problems as the collision of galaxies, spacecraft re-entry into the Earth's atmosphere, or the structure and stability of fusion plasmas. Closer to home, the behaviour of fluid flows can readily be observed in rivers, on shorelines and in cloud formations. Fluid mechanics describes the types of flows that result from different forces (such as gravity). It explains how (and why) flows become supersonic and when they may become unstable. These basic principles can then be applied to a variety of problems. In addition to introducing the concepts of fluid dynamics, and describing their application, this course will provide the students with the opportunity to develop the numerical skills required for a computational approach to the problem. This project will account for 20% of the module grade, with the remaining 80% coming from the exam.

Relationship to other modules

Pre-requisite(s): Admission to the Astrophysics MSc

Co-requisite(s): You must also take AS5500

Learning and teaching methods and delivery

Weekly contact: 3 hours of lectures (x 11 weeks), 5 x 1-hour tutorials over the semester

Scheduled learning hours: 86

Guided independent study hours: 64

Assessment pattern

As used by St Andrews: 2-hour Written Examination = 75%, Coursework = 25%

As defined by QAA
Written examinations : 75%
Practical examinations : 0%
Coursework: 25%

Personnel

Module coordinator: Professor M M Jardine
Module teaching staff: Prof M Jardine