Student Research

Leslie Quist-Adinyira

Spring 2003

Physics Discipline
Geology & Physics Department
Lock Haven University

Leslie Quist Adinyira is a 3-2 Engineering Student interested in Aerospace Engineering. He researched and studied fluid dynamics and turbulence, and built an apparatus on which to make measurments. Leslie presented his work at a physics conference and at an LHU Campus Student Symposium, where he won first place for his presentation:

CPS-AAPT, Millersville U, Lancaster PA, 5-Apr-2003
LHU Spring 2003 Student Symposium - Awarded 1st Place for his presentation.

Abstract

Student Presenter: Leslie Quist-Adinyira Major: 3-2 Cooperative Engineering Program, B.A. Institution: Lock Haven University of Pennsylvania Faculty Advisor: Dr. John D. Reid CPS-AAPT Lock Haven, PA-17745 Equipment: PC connected to projector if possible. Title: Study of Fluid Dynamics The characteristics shown by flowing fluids were studied in two dimensions using soap films. Our goal is to relate our observations to properties seen in the motion of larger-scale objects in fluids such as cars moving through air. An apparatus was designed to create a flowing film, which could be sustained for at least half an hour, thus, providing an adequate time frame to perform viable experiments. A qualitative study involved a visual of the turbulence when objects of different shapes were introduced into the fluid. Distinguishable properties were observed using models of different geometries. We constructed an apparatus to measure differences in the forces exerted on the models. It was observed that the degree of turbulence varied with flow rate and the geometry of the models. More turbulence was observed in the film with models having sharp edges, and the turbulence originated from the sharp edges. We measured the force acting on the models for different degrees of turbulence and calculated the energy associated with this force in order to study the energy associated with the turbulence.

Images from his research

Click on images to get larger image.

Images of the apparatus used to create a flowing film of soap. A reservoir of a soap/water mixture sits on top of the apparatus and flows through a tube to two string which forms the border of the flowing film. Models are place on the end of a ruler, which is used as a torque balance. By balancing torques, one can determine the force acting on a model due to the flowing fluid. One of the models studied can be seen mounted on the end of the torque balance.

Images of the soap film. Fishing line is used to form the border of the flowing film. One can see the colors in the film (due to light interference - the so-called "thin film" phenomena.).

Changes in the fluid flow can be observed by projecting light through the flowing film. Several models were studied.
1. Triangular block in different orientations.
2. Car model with sharp edges.
3. Car model with rounded edges.
One can see turbulence emerging from the sharp edges. It is also seen that the sharp edged models deflect the fluid more laterally than the smooth edged models.

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