Applications of Bernoullis

Principle

P+ gy + v2 = constant
If no change in height:
2
P + v = constant
slower speed
faster speed
more pressure

less pressure

As the speed of a fluid increases,

the pressure in the fluid decreases.
P 1/v

Motion of fluid
Pressure in fluid

kinetic energy
potential energy

KE + PE is constant

d/4

If incompressible fluid (density = ),

change in pressure?

Bernoulli & Flight

Bernoullis
Principle is what
allows birds and
planes to fly.
The secret
behind flight is
under the wings.

AIRFOI
L

On top: greater air speed and

less air pressure

On bottom: less air speed and

more air pressure

LIFT
THRUST

DRAG
GRAVITY

v2
v1

Net force on wing?

A(v2 v1 )
air = 1.29 kg/m3
2

Spoiler airfoil reversed

less air speed
more pressure
greater air speed
less pressure

net force: downward

Racecar

Spoiler provides better traction

and avoids lift

Wind over a roof

Patm = Proof + v2
v
proof

v=0
patm

slow air speed

fast air speed

Curve Ball

Golf ball dimples

Winds over a mountain

Shower Curtain

Atomizer As air passes at top of tube,

the pressure decreases and fluid is drawn up
the tube.