Lecture Notes of

Fluid Mechanics
Dr. Elhassen Ammr

IDEAL FLOW
Contents

7.1 – Stream Function ............................................................................................................................... 2

7.2 – Potential Function ............................................................................................................................ 4
7.3 – The Flow Net..................................................................................................................................... 5
7.4 – Basic Potential Flows ........................................................................................................................ 8
7.4.1 – Uniform flow .............................................................................................................................. 8
7.4.2 – Source and sink flows............................................................................................................... 9
7.4.3 – Doublet flow ............................................................................................................................ 10
7.4.4 – Free Vortex flow ...................................................................................................................... 12
7.5 – Superposition of Basic Potential Flows .......................................................................................... 13
7.5.1 – Rankine half body .................................................................................................................... 13
7.5.2 – Flow over Fixed Circular Cylinder............................................................................................ 16
7.5.3 – Flow over Rotating Circular Cylinder ...................................................................................... 18
Exercise (7) .............................................................................................................................................. 22

`
 7 Ideal Flow
Ideal fluid is a purely hypothetical fluid which is assumed to have no viscosity and no
compressibility, and, in the case of liquids, no surface tension and no vaporization. The
applications of ideal flow theory are found in aerodynamics, in accelerating flow, boundary layer
theory, tides and waves. The study of ideal flow provides mathematical expressions for
streamlines in elementary or basic flow patterns. By combining these basic flow patterns in
various ways, it is possible to obtain complex flow patterns which, in many cases, resemble
remarkably closely the real situations outside the boundary layer and any associated wakes.

7.1 – Stream Function

We can now develop a more formal definition of streamlines by introducing the stream function,
ψ. This can be done by representing the velocity components u(x,y) and υ(x,y) of a two
dimensional, Steady, incompressible flow with a single function ψ(x,y). The stream function
defined as ψ=f (x,y) relates to the velocity components in such a way that continuity equation is
satisfied. The two components of velocity, u and v can be expressed in terms of ψ as :

𝜕𝜓
𝑢=
𝜕𝑦
(7.1)
𝜕𝜓
𝑣=−
𝜕𝑥 }

For a two dimensional Steady, incompressible flow, continuity equation given by

𝜕𝑢 𝜕𝑣
+ =0 (7.2)
𝜕𝑥 𝜕𝑦

Substituting in the continuity equation we get

𝜕2 𝜓 𝜕2 𝜓
− =0
𝜕𝑥𝜕𝑦 𝜕𝑦𝜕𝑥

For a two-dimensional plane that is inviscid incompressible and irrotational flow ωz = 0. Then, the
vorticity vector becomes,
𝜕𝑣 𝜕𝑢
𝜉⃗ = 2𝜔
⃗⃗𝑧 = ( − ) 𝑘̂ = 0 (7.3)
𝜕𝑥 𝜕𝑦
Substituting by stream function relations , we get :
𝜕2 𝜓 𝜕2 𝜓
+ = 0 (7.4)
𝜕𝑥 2 𝜕𝑦 2

Fluid Mechanics by Dr. Elhassen Ammr 2

This is a second order equation and is quite popular in mathematics and is known as Laplace equation
in a two-dimensional plane.

Geometric Interpretation of ψ :
The lines along which ψ is constant are the streamlines. In a flow field, the tangent drawn at every
point along a streamline shows the direction of velocity . So, the slope at any point along a streamline
is given by,
𝑑𝑦 𝑣
(𝑑𝑥 ) = (7.5)
𝑠𝑡𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑚 𝑙𝑖𝑛𝑒 𝑢

Or 𝑢 𝑑𝑦 − 𝑣𝑑𝑥 = 0 (7.6)

Substituting by equations (7.9)

𝜕𝜓 𝜕𝜓
𝑑𝑥 + 𝑑𝑦 = 0 = 𝑑𝜓 (7.7)
𝜕𝑥 𝜕𝑦

Thus the change in ψ is zero along a streamline, or 𝜓 = 𝑐𝑜𝑛𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑡 𝑎𝑙𝑜𝑛𝑔 𝑠𝑡𝑟𝑒𝑎𝑚 𝑙𝑖𝑛𝑒
hence This family of streamlines will be useful in visualizing the flow patterns. It may also be
noted that streamlines are always parallel to each other.

In cylindrical coordinates, the stream function defined as, ψ (r,θ)

1 𝜕𝜓
𝑢𝑟 =
𝑟 𝜕𝜃
} (7.8)
𝜕𝜓
𝑢𝜃 = −
𝜕𝑟

And the Laplace equation is

𝜕 𝜕𝜓 1 𝜕2 𝜓
∇2 𝜓 = (𝑟 ) + 𝑟 𝜕𝜃2 = 0 (7.9)
𝜕𝑟 𝜕𝑟

Example 7.1
A stream function is given by 𝜓 = 3𝑥 2 − 𝑦 3 Check if it is a possible flow then determine the
magnitude of velocity components at the point (3,1)?

To be a possible stream function for a flow must satisfy Laplace equation

𝜕2 𝜓 𝜕2 𝜓
+ 𝜕𝑦 2 = 0
𝜕𝑥 2
Then
𝜕𝜓 𝜕2 𝜓
= 6𝑥 𝑎𝑛𝑑 =6
𝜕𝑥 𝜕𝑥 2

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 𝜕𝜓 𝜕2 𝜓
= −3 𝑦 2 𝑎𝑛𝑑 = −6
𝜕𝑦 𝜕𝑥 2
Then
𝜕2𝜓 𝜕2𝜓
+ =6−6=0
𝜕𝑥 2 𝜕𝑦 2

the velocity components

𝜕𝜓 𝜕𝜓
𝑢= = −3 𝑦 2 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑣 = − = −6𝑥
𝜕𝑦 𝜕𝑥
At point (3,1)
𝑢 = −3 𝑦 2 = −3 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑣 = 6𝑥 = 18
and the total velocity is the vector sum of the two components.
⃗⃗ = −3 𝑖̂ + 18 𝑗̂
𝑉

7.2 – Potential Function

When the flow is irrotational, a mathematical function called the velocity potential function φ
may also be found to exist. A velocity potential function φ for a steady, irrotational flow in the
xy-plane is defined as a function of x and y, such that the partial derivative φ with respect to
displacement in any chosen direction is equal to the velocity in that direction.
Therefore, for the x and y directions, the two components of velocity, u and v can be expressed
in terms of (φ) as :
𝜕𝜙
𝑢=
𝜕𝑥
𝜕𝜙
𝑣= (7.10)
𝜕𝑦
𝜕𝜙
𝑤=
𝜕𝑧 }

The potential function must be satisfy irrotionality condition to be exist

𝜕𝑣 𝜕𝑢
𝜉𝑧 = ( − ) = 0 (7.11)
𝜕𝑥 𝜕𝑦
So
𝜕 𝜕𝜙 𝜕 𝜕𝜙
𝜉= ( 𝜕𝑦 ) − ( 𝜕𝑥 ) = 0 (7.12)
𝜕𝑥 𝜕𝑦

Also, place equation must be satisfied for a potential flow function

𝜕 𝜕𝜙 𝜕 𝜕𝜙
( )+
𝜕𝑥 𝜕𝑥
( )=0
𝜕𝑦 𝜕𝑦
(7.13)

𝜕2 𝜙 𝜕2 𝜙
+ = ∇2 𝜙 = 0 (7.14)
𝜕𝑥 2 𝜕𝑦 2
Fluid Mechanics by Dr. Elhassen Ammr 4
An irrotational flow allows a velocity potential to be defined and to simplification of fundamental
equations. Instead of dealing with the velocity components as unknowns, one can deal with only
one parameter for a given problem. Since, the irrotational flows are best described by velocity
potential, such flows are called as potential flows. In these flows, the lines with constant , is
known as equipotential lines.
In cylindrical coordinates, the stream function defined as, ψ (r,θ)
𝜕𝜙
𝑢𝑟 =
𝜕𝑟
} (7.15)
1 𝜕𝜙
𝑢𝜃 =
𝑟 𝜕𝜃

7.3 – The Flow Net

In any two-dimensional steady flow problem, the mathematical solution is to determine the
velocity field of flow . However, if the flow is irrotational, the problem can also be solved
graphically by means of a flow net. Flow net is a network of mutually perpendicular streamlines
and equipotential lines.
Let us consider a two-dimensional, irrotational, incompressible flow in Cartesian coordinates.
For a streamline ψ(x,y)= constant and the differential of ψ is zero.
𝜕𝜓 𝜕𝜓
𝑑𝜓 = 𝑑𝑥 + 𝑑𝑦 = −𝑣𝑑𝑥 + 𝑢 𝑑𝑦 = 0
𝜕𝑥 𝜕𝑦

Or
𝑑𝑦 𝑣
(𝑑𝑥 ) = (7.16)
𝜓=𝑐𝑜𝑛𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑡 𝑢

Similarly, for an equipotential line, ϕ(x,y)= constant and the differential of ϕ is zero.
𝜕𝜙 𝜕𝜙
𝑑𝜙 = 𝑑𝑥 + 𝑑𝑦 = 𝑢 𝑑𝑥 + 𝑣 𝑑𝑦 = 0
𝜕𝑥 𝜕𝑦

Or
𝑑𝑦 𝑢
(𝑑𝑥 ) =− (7.17)
𝜙=𝑐𝑜𝑛𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑡 𝑣

Combining relations we get

𝑑𝑦 −1
(𝑑𝑥 ) = 𝑑𝑦 (7.18)
𝜓=𝑐𝑜𝑛𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑡 ( )
𝑑𝑥 𝜙=𝑐𝑜𝑛𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑡

Hence, the streamlines and equipotential lines are mutually perpendicular as in Fig. (7.1)

Fluid Mechanics by Dr. Elhassen Ammr 5

 Fig. (7.2) Stream lines perpendicular to equipotential lines

Stream Function vs Velocity Potential

The velocity potential is analogous to stream function in a sense that the derivatives of both φ
and ψ yield the flow field velocities. However, there are distinct differences between them :
 The flow field velocities are obtained by differentiating φ in the same direction as the
velocities, whereas ψ is differentiated normal to the velocity direction.
 The velocity potential is defined for irrotational flows only. In contrast, stream function
can be used in either rotational or irrotational flows.
 The velocity potential applies to three-dimensional flows, whereas the stream function is
defined for two dimensional flows only.

The streamlines, which show the direction of flow at any point, are so spaced that there is an
equal rate of flow Δq discharging through each stream tube. The discharge Δq is equal to the
change in ψ from one streamline to the next. The equipotential lines are then drawn everywhere
normal to the streamlines. The spacings of equipotential lines are selected in such a way that the
change in velocity potential from one equipotential line to the next is constant. Furthermore,
that is, Δψ = Δφ. As a result they form approximate squares (Fig. 7.2).

Fig. (7.2) Flow net

Fluid Mechanics by Dr. Elhassen Ammr 6

 Example 7.2

Two dimensional flow of a non viscous,

incompressible fluid in a vicinity of a corner
as shown in figure described by the stream
function
𝜓 = 2 𝑟 2 sin 2𝜃
Where 𝜓 has units of m2/s, and r in meters
Determine :

i. if possible the corresponding

velocity potential
Assume the fluid density 1000 kg/m3 and
ii. If the pressure at point 1 on the wall
no difference in elevation between points
is 30 kPa what is the pressure at
1 and 2
point 2?

The radial and tangential velocities are

1 𝜕𝜓 𝜕𝜓
𝑢𝑟 = 𝑟 𝜕𝜃 = 4 𝑟 cos 2𝜃 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑢𝜃 = − 𝜕𝑟 = −4 𝑟 sin 2𝜃
To have a velocity potential, the flow must satisfy Laplace equation or irrotationality condition
1 𝜕𝑟𝑢 𝜕𝑢
𝜔𝑧 = 𝑟 ( 𝜕𝑟 𝜃 − 𝜕𝜃𝑟 )
𝜕𝑟𝑢𝜃 𝜕𝑢
𝜕𝑟
= −8𝑟 sin 2𝜃 and 𝜕𝜃𝑟 = −8𝑟 sin 2𝜃
Substituting we get that 𝜔𝑧 = 0 and the flow has velocity potential

𝜕𝜙
𝑢𝑟 = 𝜕𝑟 = 4 𝑟 cos 2𝜃
Then by integration
𝜙 = ∫ 𝑢𝑟 𝑑𝑟 = ∫ 4 𝑟 cos 2𝜃 𝑑𝑟 = 2 𝑟 2 cos 2𝜃 + 𝑓(𝜃)
1 𝜕𝜙
𝑢𝜃 = 𝑟 𝜕𝜃 = −4 𝑟 sin 2𝜃
𝜙 = ∫ 𝑢𝜃 𝑟𝑑𝜃 = − ∫ 4 𝑟 2 sin 2𝜃 𝑑𝜃 = 2 𝑟 2 cos 2𝜃 + 𝑔(𝑟)
To satisfy both relations the velocity potential has the form
𝜙 = 2 𝑟 2 cos 2𝜃 + 𝐶

Since the flow is irrotational, imcompressibel and along stream line, the pressure at point 2 can be
evaluated by Bernoulli equation
1 1 1
𝑃1 + 𝜌𝑉12 = 𝑃2 + 𝜌𝑉22 → 𝑃2 = 𝑃1 + 𝜌(𝑉12 − 𝑉22 )
2 2 2
The resultant velocity is
𝑉 2 = 𝑢𝑟2 + 𝑢𝜃2 = (4 𝑟 cos 2𝜃)2 + (−4 𝑟 sin 2𝜃)2 = 16 𝑟 2

At point 1 r = 1 m 𝑉12 = 16 (1)2 = 16 𝑚2 ⁄𝑠 2

At point 2 r = 0.5 m 𝑉22 = 16 (0.5)2 = 4 𝑚2 ⁄𝑠 2

Then the pressure at point 2 is

1
𝑃2 = 30000 + 1000(16 − 4) = 36000 𝑃𝑎
2

Fluid Mechanics by Dr. Elhassen Ammr 7

7.4 – Basic Potential Flows
In a plane irrotaional flow, one can use either velocity potential or stream function to define the flow
field and both must satisfy Laplace equation. Since the Laplace equation is linear, various solutions
can be added to obtain other solutions. Thus, if we have certain basic solutions, then they can be
combined to obtain complicated and interesting solutions. Some of the basic potential flows are
discussed below.

7.4.1 – Uniform flow

It is the simplest type of flow in which the streamlines are straight and parallel with constant
velocity, is known as uniform flow. Consider a uniform flow in positive x-direction. This flow can
be represented as,
𝑢 = 𝑈 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑣=0 (7.19)

The uniform flow is a physically possible incompressible flow that satisfies continuity equation
and the flow is irrotational. Hence, the stream function can be written as,
𝜕𝜓 𝜕𝜓
𝑢= = 𝑈 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑣 = − 𝜕𝑥 = 0
𝜕𝑦

Integrating
𝜓 = ∫ 𝑉 𝑑𝑦 = 𝑈𝑦 + 𝑓(𝑥) 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑣 = 𝑓′(𝑥)

Since
𝜕𝜓
𝑣 = − 𝜕𝑥 = 0 = 𝑓′(𝑥) 𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑛 𝑓(𝑥) = 𝐶𝑜𝑛𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑡

The constant is arbitrary since velocity components are always derivatives. We set the constant
equal to zero. Thus, the stream function of the uniform flow parallel to x axis is
𝜓 = 𝑈𝑦 (7.20)

In a similar manner we generate an expression for the velocity potential for this elementary
planar irrotational flow as ,
𝜙 = 𝑈𝑥 (7.21)

Shown in Fig. (7.3a) are several streamlines and equipotential lines for a uniform stream. Notice
the mutual orthogonality.
If the uniform flow is at an angle θ with respect to positive x- direction, then
𝜓 = 𝑈(𝑦 cos 𝛼 − 𝑥 sin 𝛼 ) (7.22)
𝜙 = 𝑈(𝑥 cos 𝛼 + 𝑦 sin 𝛼 ) (7.23)

These lines are shown in Fig.(7.3b).

Fluid Mechanics by Dr. Elhassen Ammr 8

 Fig. (7.3) Uniform flow

7.4.2 – Source and sink flows

Consider a two-dimensional incompressible flow where the streamlines are radially outward
from a central point ‘O’ (Fig. 7.4). The velocity of each streamlines varies inversely with the
distance from point ‘O’. Such a flow is known as source flow and its opposite case is the sink flow,
where the streamlines are directed towards origin.
The strength, q, of the source is the volume flow rate per unit depth. At any radius, r, from a
source, the tangential velocity, uθ, is zero; the radial velocity, ur , is strength , q, divided by the
flow area per unit depth, 2πr
𝑞
𝑢𝑟 = ∓ 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑢𝜃 = 0 (7.24)
2𝜋𝑟

1 𝜕𝜓 𝑞
𝑢𝑟 = =∓
𝑟 𝜕𝜃 2𝜋𝑟

𝑞 𝑞
𝜓 = ∫ 2𝜋 𝑑𝜃 = ∓ 2𝜋 𝜃 + 𝑓(𝑟) 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑢𝜃 = 𝑓′(𝑟)

Since
𝜕𝜓
𝑢𝜃 = − = 0 = 𝑓′(𝑟) 𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑛 𝑓(𝑟) = 𝐶𝑜𝑛𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑡
𝜕𝑟

We set the constant equal to zero. Thus, the stream function of the source or sink given by
𝑞
𝜓 = ∓ 2𝜋 𝜃 (7.25)

In a similar manner we generate an expression for the velocity potential for this elementary
planar irrotational flow as ,
𝑞
𝜙 = ∓ 2𝜋 ln 𝑟 (7.26)

Fluid Mechanics by Dr. Elhassen Ammr 9

 Fig. (7.4) Source and sink flows

7.4.3 – Doublet flow

The combination of source-sink pair of equal strength leads to singularity called a doublet.
Consider a source and sink pair of equal strength q and separated by a distance 2a as shown in
Fig. (7.5). At a point ‘P’ in the flow field, the combined stream function of the pair can be written
as
𝑞
𝜓 = − 2𝜋 (𝜃1 − 𝜃2 ) (7.27)

2𝜋𝜓
− = (𝜃1 − 𝜃2 )
𝑞

Or
2𝜋𝜓 tan 𝜃 −tan 𝜃2
tan (−
𝑞
) = tan(𝜃1 − 𝜃2 ) = 1+tan1𝜃
1 tan 𝜃2

Fig. (7.5) Source and sink flows at distance 2a

Fluid Mechanics by Dr. Elhassen Ammr 10

Referring to Fig. (7.5) and using the concepts of trigonometry, the following relations can be
obtained i.e.
𝑟 sin 𝜃 𝑟 sin 𝜃
tan 𝜃1 = 𝑎𝑛𝑑 tan 𝜃2 =
𝑟 cos 𝜃−𝑎 𝑟 cos 𝜃+𝑎

2𝜋𝜓 2𝑎 𝑟 sin 𝜃
tan (− )=
𝑞 𝑟 2 −𝑎2

Then taking the inverse of tan :

2𝜋𝜓 2𝑎 𝑟 sin 𝜃
− = 𝑡𝑎𝑛−1 ( )
𝑞 𝑟 2 −𝑎2

𝑞 2𝑎 𝑟 sin 𝜃
𝜓=− 𝑡𝑎𝑛−1 ( )
2𝜋 𝑟 2 −𝑎2

For small values of a then

𝑞𝑎 𝑟 sin 𝜃
𝜓=−
𝜋(𝑟 2 −𝑎2 )
Now, a doublet can be formed by bringing the source-sink pair as close to each other, that is
(a→0) while increasing its strength (q → ∞) and keeping the product (aq) constant. Then the
stream function of a doublet can be rewritten as
𝜇 sin 𝜃
𝜓=− (7.28)
𝑟
Where m is called the strength of a doublet and it is
𝑞𝑎
𝜇=
𝜋
Since the stream function and potential function is mutually perpendicular, we can write the
velocity potential for the doublet as,
𝜇 cos 𝜃
𝜙=− (7.29)
𝑟

Combining Eqs. (7.50) and (7.52), the flow nets can be drawn as shown in Fig. (7.6)

Fig. (7.6) Doublet flow

Fluid Mechanics by Dr. Elhassen Ammr 11

7.4.4 – Free Vortex flow
A (two-dimensional) line vortex is a purely circulating steady motion, in which the streamlines
are concentric circles as showm inn Fig.(7.7). The velocity components are
Γ
𝑢𝑟 = 0 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑢𝜃 = (7.30)
2𝜋𝑟

where Γ is called the circulation or the vortex strength.

𝜕𝜓 Γ
𝑢𝜃 = − =
𝜕𝑟 2𝜋𝑟

Γ Γ
𝜓 = ∫ 2𝜋𝑟 𝑑𝑟 = − 2𝜋 ln 𝑟 + 𝑓(𝜃) 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝑢𝑟 = 𝑓′(𝜃)

Since
1 𝜕𝜓
𝑢𝑟 = = 0 = 𝑓′(𝜃) 𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑛 𝑓(𝜃) = 𝐶𝑜𝑛𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑡
𝑟 𝜕𝜃

We set the constant equal to zero. Thus, the stream function of the source or sink given by
Γ
𝜓 = − 2𝜋 ln 𝑟 (7.31)

In a similar manner we generate an expression for the velocity potential for this elementary
planar irrotational flow as ,
Γ
𝜙 = − 2𝜋𝑟 𝜃 (7.32)

Fig. (7.7) Vortex flow

Fluid Mechanics by Dr. Elhassen Ammr 12

7.5 – Superposition of Basic Potential Flows
The potential flows are governed by the linear Laplace partial differential equation, hence, a
variety of interesting potential flow can be obtained by combination of velocity potential and
stream function of basic potential flows.
In an inviscid flow field, a streamline can be considered as a solid boundary because there is no
flow through it. Moreover, the conditions along the sold boundary and the streamline are the
same. Hence, the combinations of velocity potential and stream functions of elementary flows
will lead to a particular body shape that can be interpreted as flow around that body.

7.5.1 – Rankine half body

It is combination of a uniform flow with a Source , the source strength q located at origin is
superimposed with a uniform stream with velocity U∞ as shown in Fig. (7.8). The resulting stream
function can be written as,
𝑞
𝜓 = 𝜓𝑈𝑛𝑖𝑓𝑜𝑟𝑚 + 𝜓𝑠𝑜𝑢𝑟𝑐𝑒 = 𝑈 𝑟 sin 𝜃 + 𝜃 (7.33)
2𝜋
and the velocity potential is
𝑞
𝜙 = 𝜙𝑈𝑛𝑖𝑓𝑜𝑟𝑚 + 𝜙𝑠𝑜𝑢𝑟𝑐𝑒 = 𝑈 𝑟 cos 𝜃 + ln 𝑟 (7.34)
2𝜋

Fig. (7.8) The flow around a half-body: (a) superposition of a source and a uniform
flow; (b) replacement of streamline ψ=πbU with solid boundary to form half-body.

The velocity field is obtained from stream function through differentiation i.e.
1 𝜕𝜓 𝑞
𝑢𝑟 = = 𝑈 cos 𝜃 +
𝑟 𝜕𝜃 2𝜋𝑟
} (7.35)
𝜕𝜓
𝑢𝜃 = − = −𝑈 sin 𝜃
𝜕𝑟

It is clear that at some point along the negative x axis the velocity due to the source will just
cancel that due to the uniform flow and a stagnation point will be created occur at x = -b.
Hence, a stagnation point is created which is obtained by assigning the velocity components to
zero
Fluid Mechanics by Dr. Elhassen Ammr 13
−𝑈 sin 𝜃 = 0 → 𝜃= 𝜋
Substituting in
𝑞 𝑞
𝑈 cos 𝜃 + = 0 →𝑟=
2𝜋𝑟 2𝜋𝑈

Then the coordinates of stagnation point is found out i.e.

(𝑟, 𝜃) = (𝑏, 𝜋) = (𝑞 ⁄2𝜋𝑈 , 𝜋) (7.36)
directly upstream of the source.

The streamline passing through the stagnation point is obtained by substituting the coordinates
of the stagnation point into (5. 33).
𝑞 𝑞 𝑞
𝜓= 𝑈 ( ) sin 𝜋 + 𝜋= = 𝑐𝑜𝑛𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑡
2𝜋𝑈 2𝜋 2

Since,
𝑞 𝑞
=𝑏 𝑡ℎ𝑒𝑛 = 𝑏𝜋𝑈
2𝜋𝑈 2

Then the stream line passing through the stagnation point will be
𝑞
𝜓= = 𝑏𝜋𝑈
2

it follows that the equation of the streamline passing through the stagnation point is obtained
as follows;
𝑈 𝑟 sin 𝜃 + 𝑏𝑈 𝜃 = 𝑏𝜋𝑈
Solving for r to get
𝑏(𝜋−𝜃)
𝑟 =
sin 𝜃
where can vary between 0 and 2𝜋 , A plot of this streamline is shown in Fig. (5.9b). It is clear
that this combination of a uniform flow and a source can be used to describe the flow around a
streamlined body placed in a uniform stream. The body is open at the downstream end, and thus
is called a half-body.

Using the relation, the width of the half-body asymptotically approaches 2𝜋𝑏 :
𝑟 sin 𝜃 = 𝑦 = 𝑏(𝜋 − 𝜃)
it is seen that the width of the half body asymptotically approaches to 2𝜋𝑏 while the half-
width is given by when so that as 𝜃 → 0 𝑎𝑛𝑑 𝜃 → 2𝜋 or the half-width approaches ∓𝜋𝑏 .
The magnitude of the velocity, V, at any point is obtained by velocity components given in (7.35)
𝑞 2 𝑈𝑞 cos 𝜃 𝑞 2
𝑉 2 = 𝑢𝑟2 + 𝑢𝜃2 = (𝑈 cos 𝜃 + 2𝜋𝑟) + (−𝑈 sin 𝜃)2 = 𝑈 2 + + (2𝜋𝑟)
𝜋𝑟

Fluid Mechanics by Dr. Elhassen Ammr 14

 𝑏 𝑏 2
𝑉 2 = 𝑈 2 [1 + 2 𝑟 cos 𝜃 + ( 𝑟 ) ]

With the velocity known, the pressure at any point can be determined from the Bernoulli
equation, which can be written between any two points in the flow field since the flow is
irrotational. Thus, applying the Bernoulli equation between a point far from the body, where the
pressure is Po and the velocity is U, and some arbitrary point with pressure p and velocity V, it
follows that
1 1
𝑃0 + 𝜌𝑈 2 = 𝑃 + 𝜌𝑉 2 (7.37)
2 2

Example 7.3

A Rankine half-body is formed as shown in

figure . For the conditions shown,
compute (a) the source strength q and the
distance a; (b the distance h; and (c) the
total velocity at point A.

a)
The vertical distance above the origin is a
known θ = π/2

𝑞 (𝜋 − 𝜃) 𝑞 𝜋 𝑞
𝑟 = = = =3
2𝜋𝑈 sin 𝜃 2𝜋𝑈 2 4𝑈
Then
𝑞 12𝑈
𝑞 = 12 𝑈 𝑎𝑛𝑑 ℎ𝑒𝑛𝑐𝑒 𝑎 = = = 1.9 𝑚
2𝜋𝑈 2𝜋𝑈
b) The height at x = 4 m
𝑞 (𝜋−𝜃) (𝜋−𝜃)
𝑟 = 2𝜋𝑈 = 𝑥 cos 𝜃 = 1.9 sin 𝜃 = 4 cos 𝜃
sin 𝜃

Solving for θ we get that θ = 47.8 o

and r at that coordinate 𝑟 = 4 cos 47.8 = 5.95 𝑚

then 𝑦 = 𝑟 sin 47.8 = 4.41 𝑚

c) The total velocity at point A given by Eq.

2 2
𝑏 𝑏 2
𝑉 = 𝑈 [1 + 2 cos 𝜃 + ( ) ]
𝑟 𝑟
Where : U = 7 m/s, b = 1.9m r = 5.95m and θ = 47.8 o

Substitute and the result is V = 8.7 m/s

Fluid Mechanics by Dr. Elhassen Ammr 15

7.5.2 – Flow over Fixed Circular Cylinder
Since the doublet was developed by letting a source–sink pair approach one another, it might be
expected that a uniform flow in the positive x direction combined with a doublet could be used
to represent flow around a circular cylinder. This combination gives for the stream function

𝑚 sin 𝜃 𝑚
𝜓 = 𝜓𝑈𝑛𝑖𝑓𝑜𝑟𝑚 + 𝜓𝐷𝑜𝑢𝑏𝑙𝑒𝑡 = 𝑈 𝑟 sin 𝜃 − = 𝑈 (𝑟 − 𝑈𝑟) sin 𝜃 (7.38)
𝑟
and the velocity potential is
𝑚 cos 𝜃
𝜙 = 𝜙𝑈𝑛𝑖𝑓𝑜𝑟𝑚 + 𝜙𝐷𝑜𝑢𝑏𝑙𝑒𝑡 = 𝑈 𝑟 cos 𝜃 + (7.39)
𝑟

Fig. (7.9) Flow over circular cylinder

In order for the stream function to represent flow around a circular cylinder it is necessary that
ψ = 0 for r = R
𝜇 𝜇
𝜓 = 𝑈𝑟 (1 − ) sin 𝜃 → 𝑅2 =
𝑈𝑟 2 𝑈
Thus, the stream function for flow around a circular cylinder can be expressed as
𝑅2
𝜓 = 𝑈 𝑟 (1 − ) sin 𝜃 (7.40)
𝑟2
The velocity components can be obtained from
1 𝜕𝜓 𝑅2
𝑢𝑟 = = 𝑈 (1 − ) cos 𝜃
𝑟 𝜕𝜃 𝑟2
(7.41)
2
𝜕𝜓 𝑅
𝑢𝜃 = − = − 𝑈 sin 𝜃 (1 + ) sin 𝜃}
𝜕𝑟 𝑟2

In order to locate the stagnation point, assign the velocity components in Eq. (7.41) to zero
value and simultaneously solve for r and θ . There are two stagnation points, located at and
denoted by points A and B, given by (𝑟, 𝜃) = (𝑅, 0) 𝑎𝑛𝑑 (𝑅, 𝜋)

The equation of streamlines that passes through the stagnation points A and B, is given by the
following expression;
𝑅2
𝜓 = 𝑈 𝑟 (1 − ) sin 𝜃 = 0
𝑟2

Fluid Mechanics by Dr. Elhassen Ammr 16

On the surface of the cylinder at r = R it follows that
𝑢𝑟 = 0
} (7.42)
𝑢𝜃 = −2 𝑈 sin 𝜃
Since the no-slip condition at solid walls cannot be satisfied when making the irrotational
approximation, there is slip at the cylinder wall. In fact, at the top of the cylinder (θ = 90°), the
fluid speed at the wall is twice that of the free stream.

The pressure distribution on the cylinder surface is obtained from the Bernoulli equation written
from a point far from the cylinder where the pressure Po is and the velocity is U so that
1 2 1
𝑃0 + 𝜌𝑈 2 = 𝑃𝑠 + 𝜌 𝑢𝜃𝑠
2 2
Substituting by surface velocity
1 1
𝑃0 + 𝜌𝑈 2 = 𝑃𝑠 + 𝜌 (4𝑈2 sin2 𝜃)
2 2
where Ps is the surface pressure. Elevation changes are neglected. Substituting by surface
velocity equation, the surface pressure can be expressed as
1
𝑃𝑠 = 𝑃0 + 𝜌𝑈 2 (1 − 4 sin2 𝜃) (7.43)
2
In terms of pressure coefficient
𝑃𝑠 −𝑃0
1 = (1 − 4 sin2 𝜃) (7.44)
𝜌𝑈 2
2
Which can be ploted in Fig. (7.10).

Fig. (7.10) A comparison of theoretical (inviscid) pressure distribution on the surface of a circular
cylinder with typical experimental distribution.

Fluid Mechanics by Dr. Elhassen Ammr 17

The resultant force per unit length developed on the cylinder can be determined by integrating
the pressure over the surface.

Fig. (7.11) determining lift and drag on a circular cylinder.

The drag force parallel to direction of the uniform flow and the lift force perpendicular to the
direction of the uniform flow can be evaluated by integration. Substitution for from Eq. (7.43)
into these two equations,
2𝜋 2𝜋
𝐹𝐷 = − ∫0 𝑃𝑠 cos 𝜃 𝑅 𝑑𝜃 and 𝐹𝐿 = − ∫0 𝑃𝑠 sin 𝜃 𝑅 𝑑𝜃

Integration reveals that both the drag and lift as predicted by potential theory for a fixed cylinder
in a uniform stream are zero.

7.5.3 – Flow over Rotating Circular Cylinder

An additional, potential flow can be developed by adding a free vortex to the stream function or
velocity potential for the flow around a cylinder. In this case
𝑅2 Γ
𝜓 = 𝑈 𝑟 sin 𝜃 (1 − ) + 2𝜋 ln 𝑟 (7.45)
𝑟2

𝑅2 Γ
𝜙 = 𝑈 𝑟 cos 𝜃 (1 + ) + 2𝜋 𝜃 (7.46)
𝑟2

Fig. (7.12) Flow over circular cylinder with circulation

Fluid Mechanics by Dr. Elhassen Ammr 18

The velocity fields can be obtained by differentiating
1 𝜕𝜓 𝑅2
𝑢𝑟 = = 𝑈 cos 𝜃 (1 − )
𝑟 𝜕𝜃 𝑟2
(7.47)
𝜕𝜓 𝑅2 Γ
𝑢𝜃 = − = − 𝑈 sin 𝜃 (1 + ) + 2𝜋𝑟}
𝜕𝑟 𝑟2

we can determine the location of stagnation points by setting the velocities zero on the velocity
components and solve for resulting coordinates (𝑟. 𝜃)
𝑅2
𝑢𝑟 = 𝑈 cos 𝜃 (1 − ) = 0 → 𝑎𝑡 𝑟 = 𝑅
𝑟2

At r = R then
Γ Γ
− 2𝑈 sin 𝜃 + = 0 → sin 𝜃 = (7.48)
2𝜋𝑅 4𝑈𝜋𝑅

If  = 0 then θ = 0 or π that is, the stagnation points occur at the front and rear of the cylinder
as are shown in Fig. (7.13a). However, for , −1 ≤ (Γ⁄4𝑈𝜋𝑅 ) ≤ 1 the stagnation points will
occur at some other location on the surface as illustrated in Figs. (7.13 b,c). If the absolute value
of the parameter (Γ⁄4𝑈𝜋𝑅 ) exceeds 1, Eq. (7.48) cannot be satisfied, and the stagnation point
is located away from the cylinder as shown in Fig. (7.13d).

Fig. (7.13) The location of stagnation points on a circular cylinder: (a) without circulation; (b, c,
d) with circulation.

Fluid Mechanics by Dr. Elhassen Ammr 19

The tangential velocity, on the surface of the cylinder now becomes 𝑢𝑟 = 0
Γ
𝑢𝜃𝑠 = − 2𝑈 sin 𝜃 + (7.49)
2𝜋𝑅

For the cylinder with circulation, the surface pressure, is obtained from the Bernoulli equation
with the surface velocity given by
1 2 1
𝑃0 + 𝜌𝑈 2 = 𝑃𝑠 + 𝜌 𝑢𝜃𝑠 (7.50)
2 2

Substituting by surface velocity Eq. (7.49)

1 1 Γ 2
𝑃0 + 𝜌𝑈 2 = 𝑃𝑠 + 𝜌 (− 2𝑈 sin 𝜃 + )
2 2 2𝜋𝑅

where Ps is the surface pressure. Elevation changes are neglected. Substituting by surface
velocity equation, the surface pressure can be expressed as
1 2Γ Γ2
𝑃𝑠 = 𝑃0 + 𝜌𝑈 2 (1 − 4 sin2 𝜃 + sin 𝜃 + ) (7.51)
2 2𝜋𝑈𝑅 4𝜋2 𝑈 2 𝑅 2

It can be expressed as pressure coefficient as

𝑃𝑠 −𝑃0 2Γ Γ2
1 = 1 − 4 sin2 𝜃 + sin 𝜃 + (7.52)
𝜌𝑈 2 2𝜋𝑈𝑅 4𝜋2 𝑈 2 𝑅 2
2

Fig. (7.14) Pressure distribution on a circular cylinder with and without rotation.

The force per unit length developed on the cylinder can again be obtained by integrating the
differential pressure forces around the circumference

Fluid Mechanics by Dr. Elhassen Ammr 20

For the for the drag, and integrated, yields FD = 0
However, we know from experience that there is a significant drag developed on a cylinder when
it is placed in a moving fluid. This discrepancy is known as d’Alembert’s paradox

D’Alembert’s paradox:
The drag on an object in an inviscid fluid is zero, but the drag on an object in a fluid with
vanishingly small nonzero viscosity is not zero.

However, for the lift integration yields

2𝜋
𝐹𝐿 = − ∫0 𝑃𝑠 sin 𝜃 𝑅𝑑𝜃 = −𝜌𝑈Γ (7.53)
The negative sign depends on the direction of vortex rotation, the lift force can be rewritten as
𝐿 = 𝜌𝑈Γ (7.54)

It is seen from Eq.(7.54) that the lift per unit span for a circular cylinder in a given free stream
flow is directly proportional to the circulation. This simple and powerful relation is known as
Kutta-Joukowski theorem.

The Magnus effect is an effect of lift production in an ideal flow which a rotating cylinder can be
defined as:

“The Magnus effect is an observable of lift phenomenon that is commonly associated with a
rotating object moving through the air or a fluid”.

Fig. (7.14) Lift production ( Magnus Effect )

Fluid Mechanics by Dr. Elhassen Ammr 21

 Exercise (7)
1. Given the velocity field for steady, incompressible flow in a corner, 𝑉 ⃗⃗ = 𝐴𝑥 𝑖̂ + 𝐴𝑦 𝑗̂ with
−1
A=0.3 s , determine the stream function that will yield this velocity field.
2. In a two-dimensional, incompressible flow the fluid velocity components are given by:
u = x – 4y and v = -y - 4x. Show that the flow satisfies the continuity equation and obtain
the expression for the stream function. If the flow is potential (irrotational) obtain also
the expression for the velocity potential.
3. Consider the flow field given by , 𝜓 = 𝐴𝑥 2 + 𝐴𝑦 2 , where A=3 s−1. Show that the flow
is irrotational. Determine the velocity potential for this flow.
4. Consider a steady, two-dimensional, incompressible, irrotational velocity field specified
by its velocity potential function, 𝜙 = 5(𝑥 2 − 𝑦 2 ) + +2𝑥 − 4𝑦
(a) Calculate velocity components u and v.
(b) Verify that the velocity field is irrotational in the region in which 𝜙 applies.
(c) Generate an expression for the stream function in this region.
5. Consider a ow that is defined by its stream function:
𝜓 = 3𝑒 𝛼𝑥 sin 2𝑦 + 2𝑥𝑦𝛼
where α is a free parameter.
i. Calculate the velocity field of the ow.
ii. Calculate the vorticity field of the ow.
iii. Find the value(s) of α so that the ow possesses a potential function, if any.
iv. Explain part (3).
v. Find the potential function of this ow.
6. Consider the following steady, two-dimensional, incompressible velocity field:
⃗⃗ = (𝑎𝑥 + 𝑏) 𝑖̂ + (−𝑎𝑦 + 𝑐𝑥) 𝑗̂
𝑉
Is this flow field irrotational? If so, generate an expression for the velocity potential
function.
7. For two-dimensional, incompressible, irrotational flow, the superposition of a doublet, a
uniform flow, and a free vortex represents the flow around a circular cylinder with
circulation. Obtain the stream function and velocity potential for this flow pattern, using
a clockwise free vortex. Find the velocity field, locate the stagnation points and the
cylinder surface, and obtain the surface pressure distribution. Integrate the pressure
distribution to obtain the drag and lift forces on the circular cylinder. Relate the lift force
on the cylinder to the circulation of the free vortex.
8. For two-dimensional, incompressible, irrotational flow, the superposition of a doublet, a
uniform flow, and a free vortex represents the flow around a circular cylinder with
circulation. Obtain the stream function and velocity potential for this flow pattern, using
a clockwise free vortex. Find the velocity field, locate the stagnation points and the
cylinder surface, and obtain the surface pressure distribution. Integrate the pressure
distribution to obtain the drag and lift forces on the circular cylinder. Relate the lift force
on the cylinder to the circulation of the free vortex

Fluid Mechanics by Dr. Elhassen Ammr 22