Essay of fluid dynamics for IB diploma

[Srinand]

I'm planning to do an extended Essay for the IB Diploma in Physics. I want to do something on Fluid Dynamics. I was thinking of investigating terminal velocity and effects on drag and upthrust to terminal velocity. That investigation will of course involve Stoke's Law. BUt I think that might be too shallow and GCSE-type of investigation. Can any of you suggest questions concerning fluid dynamics and post them here. Essay titles from the past that have acheived high grades would also be helpful! Please help!

 

[Nate810]

1. How Does the Angle of Attack Affect Terminal Velocity? 2. Investigating the Effect of Surface Area on Drag Coefficient and Terminal Velocity3. Analyzing the Impact of Viscosity on the Flow of Fluids4. Investigating the Effects of Temperature on Fluid Flow Dynamics5. Comparing the Effects of Reynolds Number on Laminar and Turbulent Flow6. Examining the Influence of Contraction and Expansion on Fluid Flow7. Exploring the Relationship between Pressure Gradient and Fluid Flow8. Analyzing the Impact of Different Geometries on Fluid Flow9. Investigating the Effects of Boundary Layer on Fluid Dynamics10. Investigating the Correlation Between Fluid Dynamics and Turbulence

 

[kyle8921]

I would like to commend you on your interest in exploring fluid dynamics for your extended essay for the IB Diploma in Physics. It is a fascinating and complex field of study that has numerous real-world applications.

Your idea of investigating terminal velocity and its relationship with drag and upthrust is a good starting point. However, as you mentioned, it may be considered too shallow for an IB level investigation. To deepen your exploration of fluid dynamics, you could consider incorporating other factors that affect terminal velocity, such as fluid viscosity, density, and turbulence.

Additionally, you could also explore the concept of laminar and turbulent flow and how it affects the motion of objects in a fluid. This could be investigated by varying the shape and size of the object and measuring its terminal velocity.

Another interesting aspect of fluid dynamics is the study of Bernoulli's principle and its application in everyday life, such as in the design of airplane wings and the flow of blood through arteries. You could investigate the relationship between fluid velocity and pressure and how it relates to Bernoulli's principle.

Furthermore, you could also explore the concept of Reynolds number and how it determines the type of flow in a fluid. This could be investigated by changing the velocity and viscosity of the fluid and observing its effect on the flow.

In terms of essay titles, some examples from past IB students include:

1. Investigating the Relationship between Fluid Velocity and Pressure using Bernoulli's Principle
2. The Effects of Viscosity on Terminal Velocity in Different Fluids
3. An Analysis of Laminar and Turbulent Flow in a Fluid
4. The Role of Reynolds Number in Determining Flow Type in a Fluid
5. Investigating the Impact of Fluid Density on Terminal Velocity and Drag Force
6. The Significance of Stoke's Law in Predicting Terminal Velocity in a Fluid
7. A Comparison of Different Types of Drag and their Effects on Terminal Velocity
8. The Application of Fluid Dynamics in Designing Efficient Transportation Systems
9. Exploring the Relationship between Fluid Dynamics and Biological Systems
10. Investigating the Effects of Turbulence on the Motion of Objects in a Fluid.

In conclusion, there are numerous avenues to explore in fluid dynamics for your extended essay. I hope these suggestions have sparked some ideas for your investigation. Remember to choose a topic that you are truly passionate about and have access to the necessary resources to conduct a thorough and meaningful study. Good luck!