Computation and Visualization of Viscous Flow in Ducts of Arbitrary Cross-Section

A Wolfram Language Approach for the Classroom

Authors

  • Kendall Thomson Purdue University, United States

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18260/2-1-370.660-139967

Keywords:

Computational Tools/Software, Fluid and Fluid Mechanics, Technology in the Classroom, Undergraduate Students

Abstract

As a means of showcasing the simplicity and effectiveness of high-level symbolic languages like the Wolfram Language, we use this tool to demonstrate how to easily solve for viscous flow velocity profiles in arbitrarily shaped cross-section conduits right in the classroom. With a full array of tools for visualization and analysis, the Wolfram language provides a powerful means of instructing students in numerical computation without the need for complicated codes.

Author Biography

Kendall Thomson, Purdue University, United States

Kendall T. Thomson, PhD, is an Associate Professor of Chemical Engineering at Purdue University. His research focus has been in the field of computational catalysis and materials design using ab initio and density functional methods. He has taught Purdue’s two transport courses for over fifteen years, including fluid mechanics and heat and mass transport. He earned his PhD from the University of Minnesota, Twin Cities.

Corresponding author: thomsonk@purdue.edu

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Published

2026-10-02

Issue

Ahead of Print (Articles ASAP)

Section

Class and Home Problems