Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering

Spring 2024
AERO215 – Thermofluids
Section 02

Unraveling Fluid Dynamics: A Comprehensive

Exploration of the Bernoulli Equation and Its
Applications

Contributions
Real Life Conclusion
Name ID Theory and
Introduction Application and Future
Derivation
s Implication
Amna
Mohamme 700013884
d
Hour
202110720
Alkaabi
Ezza Sidi 700040788
Ahmed
Naba 700040899
Osman

Submitted to:
Dr. John Chai Kiong

Submission Date:
25th April 2024

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Table of Contents

Introduction..............................................................................................................................3

Theory and Derivation..............................................................................................................4

Aerospace Applications............................................................................................................8

Conclusion and Future Implications.....................................................................................10

References...............................................................................................................................11

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Introduction
In the 18th century, Daniel Bernoulli was
credited with creating the principle known
as the Bernoulli equation, which has been
significant in fluid mechanics research
ever since. A key concept in fluid
mechanics, which mainly studies how
fluids behave and interact with their
surroundings, is the Bernoulli principle.
This formula is crucial to many different
disciplines, including physics,
environmental science, and engineering. It
works well in particular situations with
constant, incompressible flow and little to
no frictional force influence.[6]
Fig.1 Daniel Bernoulli. Credit: http://www.fameimages.com/daniel-
The principle of Bernoulli's fundamental bernoulli

theory is the conservation of energy in a steady, incompressible flow along a streamline. This
concept states that the total mechanical energy—which consists of pressure, potential, and
kinetic energy—per unit mass of a fluid stays constant throughout the flow path. Changes in
one form of energy are balanced out by corresponding changes in the other forms when the
fluid passes through areas of different height and velocity, maintaining the total energy
content.[7]

The Bernoulli principle's simplicity and refinement have made it a vital tool in fluid
mechanics, allowing scientists and engineers to forecast and evaluate fluid behavior in a
variety of applications. The Bernoulli principle offers a fundamental framework for
comprehending fluid flow and maximizing system performance in a variety of contexts,
including the design of airplane wings and the optimization of water distribution networks.
[8]

Though the Bernoulli principle provides insightful information, there are certain restrictions
on how it can be used. The assumption of inviscid flow, which ignores fluid friction, is one
important factor to take into account. This assumption might not always be true, but it is true
in many real-world situations, such as high-speed airflow over streamlined bodies. Viscosity
effects become important near solid barriers and in flow separation areas, where they can
change the fluid dynamics in ways that are not well explained by the Bernoulli principle
alone.[9]
Furthermore, misconceptions regarding fluid behavior result from a common
misinterpretation or misuse of the Bernoulli principle. Specifically, the concept is
occasionally incorrectly used to describe phenomena involving complex fluid dynamics, like
the lift produced by an airfoil or the flow characteristics of fluids in curved pipes.[8]
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Taking these factors into account, a thorough examination of the Bernoulli principle, its
underlying theories, and its applications is important. We may improve our knowledge of
fluid mechanics and create more precise predictive models by closely analyzing the
circumstances in which the principle holds true and clarifying its limitations.
Through the use of a multidisciplinary approach that incorporates theoretical analysis,
computational simulations, and experimental validation, our research endeavor seeks to
investigate the Bernoulli principle in depth.

Theory and Derivation

Assumptions of Bernoulli’s equation:
Bernoulli's equation is based on a few key assumptions that help simplify the analysis of fluid
flow [1][2][3]. These assumptions make it easier to analyze complex fluid dynamics and apply
conservation principles. Here are the assumptions underlying Bernoulli's equation:
1. Steady Flow: The fluid flow is considered steady, which means the properties of the
fluid remain constant over time [1]. This simplifies the use of steady-state conservation
laws and will contribute in cancelling out time dependent terms in the equation.
2. Negligible viscous effect: Viscosity is assumed to have a negligible impact on the
fluid flow, enabling the idealization of a non-viscous or "ideal" fluid [1][2]
3. No shaft work: no shaft work done by any device is involved in the flow [3]. This
assumption ensures that the conservation of energy principle is not affected by any
input or output work.
4. Incompressible flow: Compressible flow is defined as a fluid flow in which the
density changes significantly [5]. In contrast, incompressible flow assumes that the
fluid density remains constant, simplifying the equation.
5. Negligible heat transfer: Heat transfer between the fluid and its surroundings is
assumed to be negligible [1]. This eliminates the need to account for energy changes
due to heat transfer in the energy conservation equation.
6. Flow along a streamline: he fluid flow is assumed to occur along a streamline, which
is the path a fluid particle follows [1] . This simplifies the analysis by focusing on a
single streamline rather than the entire flow field.

Defining important variables:

As we will be proceeding to derive Bernoulli’s equation in the next subsection, some
important variables must be defined first:
kg
ρ is the density of the fluid ( 2
)
m
P x is the pressure of the fluid at point x (Pa)

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 m
g is the acceleration of gravity on the surface of the earth at sea level which is 9.8 2
s
z is the elevation of the point above a reference level (m)

Acceleration of a fluid particle:

To derive the Bernoulli equation using Newton's second law, we must first understand the
acceleration of a fluid particle and find a mathematical equation that represent it to be used
later. In a steady flow, where the properties of the fluid remains constant over time as
mentioned earlier, all particles passing through the same point follow the same path (the
streamline), with velocity vectors tangent to the path at every point.

For any particle undergoing curvilinear motion, 2 components of acceleration are affecting it:
1. tangential acceleration (in this case, it is due to the change in speed along the
streamline so we will be calling it streamwise acceleration a s )
2
v
2. normal acceleration a n= , where R is the radius of curvature. The normal
R
acceleration is due to the change in direction.
Here we will be dealing with the streamwise acceleration only as it directly impact the fluid
flow along the streamline.
Even in steady flow, acceleration can occur, as seen in a garden hose nozzle (Fig. 2). Steady
flow simply implies no change with time at a specified
location, yet a quantity may change from one location to
another.
Mathematically, the acceleration of a fluid particle is expressed
as:
dv ∂ v ds ∂ v
= + (1) Fig.2 - During steady flow, a fluid may not
dt ∂ s dt ∂ t accelerate in time at a fixed point, but it may
accelerate in space [4]

∂v
In steady flow, = 0, so v is a function of s, and the acceleration in the s-direction
∂t
becomes:

dv ∂ v ds ∂ v dv
a s= = = v= v (2)
dt ∂ s dt ∂ s ds

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 ds
where v= if following a fluid particle moving along a streamline. In steady flow,
dt
acceleration is due to the change of velocity with position [4].

Deriving the equation:

We will be deriving the Bernoulli’s equation using newton’s second law of motion. Therefore,
a FBD (free body diagram) and a KD (kinetic diagram) are needed. Both are shown in Fig.3
and Fig.4, respectively.

Fig.3 – FBD of a fluid particle moving along a Fig.4 – KD of a fluid particle moving along a streamline in
streamline in normal tangential coordinates (the normal tangential coordinates (the streamline shown in blue)
streamline shown in blue)

Applying newton’s second law in the tangential direction (s):

∑ F s =ma s (3)

dv
P dA−( P+dP ) dA +W sin ( ϕ )=m v (4)
ds
m=ρV =ρ dA ds (5)
W =mg=ρg dA ds (6)
dz
sin ( ϕ )= (7)
ds

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Plugging 5, 6 & 7 in 4:
ⅆz ⅆv
−dPⅆA − ρgdA ds = ρdA ds v (8)
ⅆs ⅆs

Simplifying 8:
− ⅆP− ρgⅆz =ρ vdv (9)
We know that:
1
vⅆv = ⅆ ( v )
2
(10)
2

Substituting (10) in (9) and dividing each term by ρ :

ⅆP 1
+ ⅆ ( v ) + gⅆz =0
2
(11)
ρ 2
Integrating:
1 1
∫ ⅆP + v 2+ gz=constant (12)
ρ 2

since the last two terms are exact differentials. In the case of incompressible flow, the first
term also becomes an exact differential, and integration gives:
2
P v
+ +gz =constant (13)
ρ 2

multiplying everything by ρ :
1 2
P+ ρ v + ρgz=constant (14)
2

In the case of 2 different points on the same streamline the equations is:

1 2 1 2 (15)
P1 + ρ ν 1 + ρg z1 =P 2+ ρ ν 2+ ρg z 2
2 2

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The equation we derived shows how energy is conserved in fluids as they flow along a
streamline. This equation is useful for calculating things like velocity, pressure, and height
changes at different points along the streamline in fluid mechanics scenarios. To put it simply,
by deriving Bernoulli's equation, we've shown how fundamental principles from physics and
math can be used to study fluid flow and energy conservation in a system.

Aerospace Applications:

JET PUMPS IN AEROSPACE:

Jet pumps are devices that use a high-speed fluid to pump another fluid to a higher pressure.
Jet pumps consist of components like a primary nozzle, secondary fluid injectors, a mixing
chamber, a throat, and a diffuser. The model described in the paper simulates the flow of a
two-phase primary fluid that induces a secondary liquid (either saturated or subcooled)
injected into the mixing chamber. It considers phase transformations caused by compression,
expansion, and mixing, as well as temperature and pressure effects.

If it is assumed that in a steady state, the static pressure has the same value at all points in
the plane W,
then (Bernoulli's equation):

1 2 1 2
P1 + ρ ν 1 + ρg z1 =P 2+ ρ ν 2+ ρg z 2
2 2

The jet pump utilizes primary air bled from the aircraft's
turbine engine through a primary nozzle, while ambient air
enters through a secondary nozzle surrounding the primary
one. These air streams mix in a tube before being delivered
to the aircraft cabin through a divergent section. The jet
pump operates autonomously to maintain a consistent air
flow rate for pressurizing the cabin across varying altitudes,
without requiring additional control devices.[10]

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Bernoulli's principle states that in a flowing fluid, an increase in the speed of the fluid occurs
simultaneously with a decrease in pressure or potential energy. This principle is foundational
to understanding how jet pumps work.

In a jet pump, high-speed primary fluid (often air) is ejected through a primary nozzle.
According to Bernoulli's principle, as this fluid accelerates, its pressure decreases. This high-
speed jet of primary fluid then entrains or drags along surrounding fluid (often ambient air) as
it moves through the pump's mixing chamber. This entrainment increases the overall volume
of fluid being moved while further decreasing pressure due to the increased speed of the
combined flow.

As a result, the combined flow of primary and entrained fluid emerges from the jet pump at a
lower pressure but higher volume and velocity, making it suitable for various applications
such as cabin pressurization in aircraft or pumping fluids in industrial processes.

Therefore, the operation of jet pumps relies on the principles outlined in Bernoulli's equation,
particularly the relationship between fluid velocity, pressure, and flow. [11]

The jet pump utilizes high-pressure, high-temperature primary air to create a high-speed jet
from a primary nozzle. This jet mixes with ambient air in the pump's mixing tube, resulting in
a lower-velocity air flow at the outlet suitable for cabin pressurization. By reducing the
amount of primary air needed from the engine compressor, the jet pump decreases the power
drawn from the engine for pressurizing the cabin. This efficiency allows more engine power
to be allocated to the primary task of flying the aircraft. [12]

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Conclusion and Future Implications

The Bernoulli principle, a fundamental framework in fluid mechanics, has significant

implications in various real-world situations. One such application is in the field of
aerodynamics, where the principle is used to explain the behaviour of fluids in motion. For
instance, the concept of streamlined flow, where fluid particles move along smooth paths, is a
direct result of Bernoulli's equation. In incompressible flow, the equation helps in
understanding how the total energy of a fluid remains constant along a streamline. This
conservation of energy principle is crucial in optimizing system performance in engineering
applications.
Looking ahead, the Bernoulli equation continues to play a vital role in various industries. One
area of interest is the study of frictional forces in fluid flow. By considering the effects of
viscosity on fluid behaviour, engineers can better predict and control the performance of
systems. The equation also aids in debunking misconceptions about fluid dynamics, such as
the belief that faster flow always results in lower pressure. Understanding the nuances of
Bernoulli's equation can lead to more accurate predictions and improved designs.
In engineering, the Bernoulli equation is used extensively to analyze and design fluid
systems. For example, in the design of aircraft wings, engineers rely on the principles of fluid
mechanics to optimize lift and drag forces. By applying Bernoulli's equation, they can
calculate the pressure distribution over the wing surface and make adjustments to improve
aerodynamic performance. Additionally, in the field of HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air
Conditioning), the equation is used to determine airflow rates and pressure drops in
ductwork.
Understanding the Bernoulli equation also has environmental implications, especially in the
study of natural phenomena like ocean currents and weather patterns. By applying the
principles of fluid dynamics, scientists can model the behaviour of large-scale fluid systems
and predict climate changes. The equation helps in analyzing the impact of human activities
on natural flows, such as the effects of pollution on river currents or the dynamics of air
pollution dispersion.
In conclusion, the Bernoulli equation is a powerful tool that has far-reaching implications in
various fields. From engineering applications to environmental studies, the equation provides
a framework for understanding fluid behaviour and optimizing system performance. By
delving deeper into the concepts of conservation of energy, streamlined flow, and frictional

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forces, researchers and engineers can continue to unlock new possibilities and improve our
understanding of the world around us.

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References
[1] White, F. M. (2016). Fluid Mechanics (8th ed.). McGraw-Hill Education.
[2] Munson, B. R., Young, D. F., & Okiishi, T. H. (2006). Fundamentals of Fluid Mechanics
(5th ed.). John Wiley & Sons.
[3] Fox, R. W., & McDonald, A. T. (2015). Introduction to Fluid Mechanics (8th ed.). John
Wiley & Sons.
[4] Cengel, Y., Cimbala, J., & Ghajar, A. (2022). Fundamentals of Thermal-Fluid Sciences (6th
ed.). McGraw-Hill Education.
[5] Chai, J. C. (2024). Compressible Flow [Lecture notes]. Department of Mechanical &
Aerospace Engineering, UAE University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates.
[6] Bernoulli’s Equation: Unveiling the Fundamentals of Fluid Dynamics | Be-cu.com. (2023,
July 30). Be-cu.com. https://be-cu.com/blog/bernoullis-equation/
[7] 10 fun and interesting Daniel Bernoulli facts. (n.d.). https://www.10-facts-about.com/daniel-
bernoulli/id/1527#google_vignette
[8] Moore, J. (2023, June 5). Bernoulli’s Theorem: Explanation, Formula, and Applications.
Canute LLP. https://canutesoft.com/hydraulic-calculation-for-fire-protection-engineers/
bernoullis-theorem
[9] Bernoulli’s Principle and Equation – Flow Measurement. (2023, November
2). Inst Tools. https://instrumentationtools.com/bernoullis-principle-and-equation/

[10] Marshall Space Flight Center Sherif, S.A.(Florida Univ. Gainesville, FL United States) Hunt )(2013, January 1)

publisher: American Inst. of Aeronautics and Astronautics https://ntrs.nasa.gov/citations/19980201088

[11] L Herr (2022, April) https://patents.google.com/patent/US3842720A/en#citedBy
[12] J E T PUMP S by J.T. WILMAN (RCN) (1966) https://aei.pitt.edu/91233/1/3253.pdf

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