Simple Examples of Plane Potential Flows

In this section we consider some of the simple potential flows. The examples considered are such that there is an analytical expression for $\phi, \psi, u,,$ for each of them. While calculating such flow a good coordinate system is important. Of course, it is true that any example could be handled with the Cartesian coordinates. But depending on the problem, the expressions may become too complicated. Further, the geometry of the flow itself indicates the coordinates to be chosen. Accordingly it is necessary to write down the important formulas involving stream function and velocity potential in the Cartesian and Polar coordinate systems.

(c) Aerospace, Mechanical & Mechatronic Engg. 2005
University of Sydney