Introduction to Fluid Mechanics

Introduction to Fluid Mechanics book was written for an introductory course in fluid mechanics. Our approach to the subject, as in all previous editions, emphasizes the physical concepts of fluid mechanics and methods of analysis that begin from basic principles. The primary objective of this text is to help users develop an orderly approach to problem solving. Thus we always start from governing equations, state assumptions clearly, and try to relate mathematical results to corresponding physical behavior. We continue to emphasize the use of control volumes to maintain a practical problem-solving approach that is also theoretically inclusive.

The Fox-McDonald-Pritchard solution methodology used in this text is illustrated in numerous Examples in each chapter. Solutions presented in the Examples have been prepared to illustrate good solution technique and to explain difficult points of theory. Examples are set apart in format from the text so that they are easy to identify and follow. Additional important information about the text and our procedures is given in the “Note to Student” in Section 1.1 of the printed text. We urge you to study this section carefully and to integrate the suggested procedures into your problem-solving and results-presentation approaches.

SI units are used in about 70 percent of both Example and end-of-chapter problems. English Engineering units are retained in the remaining problems to provide experience with this traditional system and to highlight conversions among unit systems that may be derived from fundamentals.