Aerothermodynamics

Course Description

This course aims at providing fundamental knowledge into the phenomena of high-temperature, nonequilibrium, and rarefied flows. Concepts and techniques for the description of high-temperature and chemically reacting gases from a molecular point of view are presented. This includes basic kinetic theory, which encompasses molecular collisions, the Boltzmann equation, and distribution functions. Introductory quantum mechanics is covered including the Schrödinger equation and quantum energy states for translation, rotation, vibration, and electronic models of atoms and molecules. Statistical mechanics is then used to relate quantum and molecular-level information to macroscopic gas properties using the Boltzmann relation and partition functions. Finally, these ideas are combined for the analysis of a chemically reacting and high-temperature flow. This includes high-temperature effects, equilibrium and nonequilibrium processes, finite-rate chemistry, and energy transfer between energy modes. Examples and areas of interest include aerothermodynamics of hypersonic flight, planetary re-entry, and satellites; physical gas dynamics; nonequilibrium gas dynamics; and molecular gas dynamics.

Code

AME 437

Credits

3

Subject

Aerospace & Mechanical Engr

Programs That Include This Course

• Bachelor's Bachelor of Science in Aerospace Engineering
• Bachelor's Bachelor of Science in Electrical & Computer Engr in Electrical and Computer Engineering
• Bachelor's Bachelor of Science in Optical Sciences & Engr in Optical Sciences & Engineering
• Minor Minor in Mechanical Engineering