which of the following statements regarding the concept of continuum a...
Correct Answer :- c
Explanation : Concept of Continuum is a kind of idealization of the continuous description of matter where the properties of matter are considered as continuous function of space variables. Although any matter is composed of several molecules, the concept of continuum assumes a continuous distribution of mass within the matter or system with no empty space, instead of actual conglomeration of separate molecules (a thing consisting of number of different distinct parts or item and that are grouped together it is meaning of conglomeration) for follow continuum concept characteristic length of molecular system should be more than mean free path (distance between two collisions) characteristic length is diameter of molecule < D (follow continuum concept).
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which of the following statements regarding the concept of continuum a...
Concept of Continuum
The concept of continuum is a fundamental concept in fluid mechanics that allows us to simplify the study of fluid flow by considering a continuous medium rather than individual molecules. It assumes that the fluid can be treated as a continuous substance, with properties such as density, velocity, and pressure varying smoothly throughout the fluid.
1. Large number of molecules enable meaningful statistical averaging and assignment of property values
This statement is correct. The concept of continuum relies on the assumption that there are a large number of molecules in the fluid. This allows us to use statistical methods to average out the behavior of individual molecules and assign meaningful property values to the fluid as a whole. By considering the behavior of a large number of molecules, we can simplify the analysis of fluid flow and make predictions about macroscopic properties.
2. Mean free path of the molecules is order of magnitude higher than system dimensions
This statement is incorrect. The mean free path of molecules in a fluid is the average distance traveled by a molecule between collisions with other molecules. In a continuum, the mean free path is very small compared to the system dimensions. This means that molecules are constantly colliding with each other, and their individual behavior is not significant in determining the overall behavior of the fluid.
3. Behaviour of individual molecules is disregarded
This statement is correct. In the concept of continuum, the behavior of individual molecules is disregarded. Instead, we focus on the average behavior of a large number of molecules. This allows us to simplify the analysis and consider the fluid as a continuous medium with smoothly varying properties.
4. Mean free path of the molecules approaches the order of magnitude of the system dimensions
This statement is incorrect. As mentioned earlier, in a continuum, the mean free path of molecules is very small compared to the system dimensions. This means that the molecules are closely packed together and their individual behavior is not significant in determining the overall behavior of the fluid.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the correct statements regarding the concept of continuum are:
- Large number of molecules enable meaningful statistical averaging and assignment of property values.
- Behavior of individual molecules is disregarded.
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