Physiological Fluid Mechanics

This chapter focuses on the intricate dynamics of fluid flow within the human body, with a focus on blood circulation and vascular physiology. Beginning with an exploration of blood flow and the vascular system, the chapter reviews fundamental principles governing fluid motion, including concepts such as inviscid flow and steady laminar flow in circular tubes. Key parameters, like the Reynolds number, which determines flow regimes and transitions between laminar and turbulent flow, are also introduced. The behavior of non-Newtonian fluids, such as blood, whose viscosity varies with shear rate, is reviewed. The text explores the mechanics of viscous flow, lubrication theory, and laminar boundary layer theory, shedding light on phenomena like boundary layer formation and flow separation. It further discusses turbulent flow and its implications for physiological processes, as well as pulsatile flow dynamics and their significance in arterial circulation.