ME 167: Microscale Fluid Mechanics (3 units)
CATALOG DESCRIPTION
Phenomena of physical, technological, and biological significance in flows of gases and liquids at the microscale. The course begins with familiar equations of Newtonian fluid mechanics, then proceeds to the study of essentially 1-D flows in confined geometries with the lubrication equations. Next is a study of the flow of thin films spreading under gravity or surface tension gradients. Lubrication theory of compressible gases leads to consideration of air bearings. Two- and 3-D flows are treated with Stokes' equations. Less familiar physical phenomena of significance and utility at the microscale are then considered: intermolecular forces in liquids, slip, diffusion and bubbles as active agents. A review of relevant aspects of electricity and magnetism precedes a study of electrowetting and electrokinetically driven liquid flows.
COURSE PREREQUISITES
105, 106, 109, Physics 7B or equivalent.
TEXTBOOK(S) AND/OR OTHER REQUIRED MATERIAL
Introduce the students to the special features of microscale flows.
The students should be able to formulate and solve elementary problems associated with the list of topics.
TOPICS COVERED
The course begins with the study of essentially 1-D flows in confined geometries with the lubrication equations. Next is a study of the flow of thin films spreading under gravity or surface tension gradients. Lubrication theory of compressible gases leads to consideration of air bearings. Two- and 3-D flows are treated with Stokes' equations. Less familiar physical phenomena of significance and utility at the microscale are then considered: intermolecular forces in liquids, slip, diffusion and bubbles as active agents. A review of relevant aspects of electricity and magnetism precedes a study of electrowetting and electrokinetically driven liquid flows.
CLASS/LABORATORY SCHEDULE
Three hours of lecture per week.
CONTRIBUTION OF THE COURSE TO MEETING THE PROFESSIONAL COMPONENT
Computer aided analysis is used in the context of design in examples.
RELATIONSHIP OF THE COURSE TO ABET PROGRAM OUTCOMES
An ability to apply knowledge of mathematics, science, and engineering.
An ability to identify, formulate, and solve engineering problems.
A recognition of the need for, and an ability to engage in life-long learning.
ASSESSMENT OF STUDENT PROGRESS TOWARD COURSE OBJECTIVES
Frequent homework, midterm and final exam.
