Accession Number:

ADA551099

Title:

The Bernoulli Equation in a Moving Reference Frame

Descriptive Note:

Journal article

Corporate Author:

NAVAL ACADEMY ANNAPOLIS MD

Personal Author(s):

• Mungan, Carl E.

Report Date:

2011-02-02

Pagination or Media Count:

5.0

Abstract:

Unlike other standard equations in introductory classical mechanics, the Bernoulli equation is not Galilean invariant. The explanation is that, in a reference frame moving with respect to constrictions or obstacles, those surfaces do work on the fluid, constituting an extra term that needs to be included in the workenergy calculation. A quantitative example is presented here for a horizontal tapered pipe. A frame-independent expression for the pressure drop in the pipe is obtained. The concepts discussed in this paper are accessible to introductory undergraduate physics majors.

Descriptors:

• *EQUATIONS
• FLUIDS
• INVARIANCE
• MECHANICS
• NONLINEAR DIFFERENTIAL EQUATIONS
• REPRINTS

Subject Categories:

• Numerical Mathematics

Distribution Statement:

APPROVED FOR PUBLIC RELEASE