Fluid mechanics and soft matter
Summary
This course introduces the core principles of fluid mechanics and connects them to the physics of soft matter systems such as colloids, polymers, emulsions, and biological materials. Emphasis is placed on understanding behavior bridging the microscopic and continuum perspectives.
Content
Fluid Mechanics:
Continuum hypothesis, kinematics
Navier-Stokes equations
Dimensionless numbers and similarity
Thin film flows
Soft Matter:
Bubbles and droplets
Colloidal suspensions and Brownian motion
Non-Newtonian fluids and rheology
Polymers and viscoelasticity
Liquid crystals, gels, and foams
Active matter
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the course, the student must be able to:
- Analyze fluid flow in various regimes using physical and mathematical tools.
- Explain the behavior of soft matter systems and the physical principles behind them.
- Apply theoretical models to complex fluid and soft matter problems.
- Analyze soft matter phenomena in real-world applications, including biological systems.
Teaching methods
Weekly lectures.
Weekly problem sets and exercise session.
Assessment methods
100% written final exam
Resources
Bibliography
van Saarloos, W., Vitelli, V., & ZeravÄić, Z. (2024). Soft Matter: Concepts, Phenomena, and Applications. Princeton University Press.
Ressources en bibliothèque
Moodle Link
In the programs
- Semester: Fall
- Exam form: Written (winter session)
- Subject examined: Fluid mechanics and soft matter
- Courses: 2 Hour(s) per week x 14 weeks
- Exercises: 1 Hour(s) per week x 14 weeks
- Type: optional