Explore the world of Fluid Dynamics in our new online course

 

“Fluids can sometimes be seen as a challenging topic - we wanted to make an introductory fluids course that was accessible to a broad range of people using engaging, interactive real-world examples that people could understand and relate to – and see for themselves why they are fascinating and powerful.” 
Duncan Borman, Associate Professor, Faculty of Engineering & Physical Sciences.

The online course is ideal for students eager to explore the principles of fluid dynamics and discover real-world applications across various industries, it provides a valuable foundation for those interested in studying at Leeds on courses such as:

• Civil Engineering
• Mechanical Engineering
• Physics
• Chemical Engineering
• Mathematics
• Geophysical and Atmospheric Sciences

The course introduces the fundamental behaviours of liquid and gasses, laying the groundwork for more advanced topics. Key concepts include:

• Laminar vs. turbulent flow: Understanding the differences between smooth, orderly flow and chaotic, irregular movement in fluids.
• The Bernoulli principle: Exploring how pressure and velocity are interconnected, and how this principle applies to real-world scenarios like flight and the flow of liquid through pipes.
• Modelling fluid behaviour: Learning how to represent fluid dynamics through simplified models that help predict and explain fluid motion in various contexts.

Learners also explore real-world examples of how fluid dynamics affects both people and the environment. Including:

• Air quality and disease transmission: Understanding how airborne particles and infections spread through the air.
• Formation of weather phenomena: Exploring how principles of fluid motion underpin the development of large-scale events such as cyclones.
• Extreme weather prediction: Examining how fluid dynamics is used to model and forecast severe weather events.

The course has been carefully designed to demystify complex subjects, breaking down scientific principles, equations, and advanced mathematics into accessible, real-world contexts.

For example, the course shows how the relationship between pressure and velocity explains how an aircraft performs when flying at different altitudes.

It also brings complex mathematical ideas to life through interactive and dynamic elements, such as gauges and metric trackers mirroring those found in real aircraft cockpits.

Regular knowledge checks, reflection activities, and research tasks are embedded throughout to ensure students are grasping the concepts and developing their understanding.

With scenarios ranging from calculating aircraft velocity, to modelling air quality.

Would you like to know more?

If you or someone you know is curious about fluid dynamics, be sure to explore the Fluid Dynamics course page on FutureLearn. Here you can find more information about what you'll learn and how to enrol.