PHAS5160M The Physics of Fluids
15 Credits Class Size: 50
Module manager: Dr Chris Nixon
Email: c.j.nixon@leeds.ac.uk
Taught: Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) View Timetable
Year running
2026/27
Pre-requisite qualifications
Mathematical content from within PHAS2010 2020 2030 2040 or equivalent, specifically, ODEs, PDEs, vector calculus.
This module is not approved as an Elective
Module summary
Fluids are an important part of the world around us. The air we breathe, the oceans and even stars and matter flowing around black holes, are all fluids. This module provides an introduction to the physics of fluids, and students will encounter examples of fluid flows from different topics in physics and astrophysics.
Objectives
This module will develop an understanding of the physics of fluids and provide the background and knowledge required to understand fluid flows in a variety of topics, from those on Earth to astrophysical flows. The coursework assignments provide examples of problems encountered in these topics to embed the material, develop numerical models of fluid systems and equip students with the ability to tackle more complex problems involving fluid flow.
Learning outcomes
On successful completion of the module students will be able to demonstrate knowledge, understanding and application of the following:
1. derive and explain the physical principles underlying the motion of fluids;
2. manipulate and solve the fluid equations to describe fluid flow;
3. discuss and explain the physics giving rise to some everyday phenomena that involves fluids;
4. discuss and explain the underlying principles and resulting behaviour of some astrophysical fluid flows.
5. implement numerical models to discern structure and evolution of some physical systems.
Skills Learning Outcomes
a) To solve physical problems related to fluid flows in different physical settings.
b) To develop or use numerical models for fluid systems.
Teaching Methods
| Delivery type |
Number |
Length hours |
Student hours |
| Lecture |
27 |
1 |
27 |
| Private study hours |
123 |
| Total Contact hours |
27 |
| Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) |
150 |
Private study
123 hours of Private Study Time.
Opportunities for Formative Feedback
During workshops where students attempt problems in real time, and formal feedback provided on the continuous assessment assignment sheets.
Reading List
Check the module area in Minerva for your reading list
Last updated: 30/04/2026
Errors, omissions, failed links etc should be notified to the Catalogue Team