Southampton, United Kingdom

Aerodynamics and Computation

Master's
Language: EnglishStudies in English
Subject area: computer science
Qualification: MSc
Kind of studies: full-time studies
Master of Science (MSc)
University website: www.soton.ac.uk
Aerodynamics
Aerodynamics, from Greek ἀήρ aer (air) + δυναμική (dynamics), is the study of the motion of air, particularly its interaction with a solid object, such as an airplane wing. It is a sub-field of fluid dynamics and gas dynamics, and many aspects of aerodynamics theory are common to these fields. The term aerodynamics is often used synonymously with gas dynamics, the difference being that "gas dynamics" applies to the study of the motion of all gases, and is not limited to air. The formal study of aerodynamics began in the modern sense in the eighteenth century, although observations of fundamental concepts such as aerodynamic drag were recorded much earlier. Most of the early efforts in aerodynamics were directed toward achieving heavier-than-air flight, which was first demonstrated by Otto Lilienthal in 1891. Since then, the use of aerodynamics through mathematical analysis, empirical approximations, wind tunnel experimentation, and computer simulations has formed a rational basis for the development of heavier-than-air flight and a number of other technologies. Recent work in aerodynamics has focused on issues related to compressible flow, turbulence, and boundary layers and has become increasingly computational in nature.
Computation
Computation is any type of calculation that includes both arithmetical and non-arithmetical steps and follows a well-defined model, for example an algorithm.
Aerodynamics
The story of aerodynamics is itself dynamic, replete with smashing successes, abject failures, and intense human competitions that have had major social, economic, and political consequences. It is a story of human beings, some exceptional and some average, some admirable and some not so. Above all, it is the story of an intellectual quest to understand those laws of nature that have allowed the continuing development of aircraft that can fly faster, higher, and more efficiently than their predecessors.
John David Anderson (1998). A History of Aerodynamics: And Its Impact on Flying Machines. Cambridge University Press. p. 3. ISBN 978-0-521-66955-9. 
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