derive Stokes formula using dimensional analysis.
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Dimensional analysis proof of Stokes' Law
Suppose that the sphere has radius r and falls through a fluid of viscosity η. Let the terminal velocity be v
We can calculate the viscous drag F on the sphere by dimensional analysis.
If
F = krxηyvz
We have MLT-2 = Lx(ML-1T-1)y(LT- 1)z
Solving this gives x = 1, y = 1 and z = 1.
By other methods k can be shown to be 6π.
Thus giving:
F = 6πηrv
Suppose that the sphere has radius r and falls through a fluid of viscosity η. Let the terminal velocity be v
We can calculate the viscous drag F on the sphere by dimensional analysis.
If
F = krxηyvz
We have MLT-2 = Lx(ML-1T-1)y(LT- 1)z
Solving this gives x = 1, y = 1 and z = 1.
By other methods k can be shown to be 6π.
Thus giving:
F = 6πηrv
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