Waves and Instabilities in Fluids
Wellen und Instabilitäten in Flüssigkeiten
6 CPWinterEN
Prerequisites
Recommended, as written
• Basic level knowledge in theoretical physics (Bachelor-level)
Contents
• Hydrodynamic basic equations: Euler, Navier-Stokes, continuity, energy, concentration(s) • Surface waves: Potential flow, deep and shallow water, solitons, Tsunamis, capillary waves • Instabilities: general principles, bifurcation theory, classification • Unstable systems: Kelvin-Helmhotz, Rayleigh-Taylor, convection, mixtures, thin films
Learning outcomes
After successfully completing the module, students master the foundations of hydrodynamics with regard to theoretical and phenomenological aspects. The topic of the module serves as an example for studying the realization of knowledge and the classification of knowledge within the field of physics. In addition the module supports further competences as e. g. cooperation ability, carefullness, persistance, curiosity, working on one's own initiative.
Assessment
Prerequisite: • Successful completion of exercise assignments (75% must be reached) Final module examination: • Written examination, 90 min.
Literature (3)
- P. K. Kundi, Fluid Mechanics
- H. Lamb, Hydrodynamics
- T. E. Faber, Fluid Dynamics for Physicists
Remarks
• Study programme Physics M.Sc.: Compulsory elective module in complex „Physical Specialization with theoretical focus“, topic area „Theory, Simulation and further topics“ • Study programme Applied Mathematics M.Sc.: Compulsory elective module in complex „Applications“, field „Physics“
Source: BTU's module description · retrieved 15 Oct 2026Original