MCAT Physical

A comprehensive introduction to the fundamental concepts of physics as tested on the MCAT, including mechanics, thermodynamics, electricity, and more.

Advanced Topics

Fluids: Liquids and Gases in Motion

Go with the Flow

Fluids (liquids and gases) behave in fascinating ways, and their principles are crucial in medicine and engineering.

Properties

  • Density: Mass per unit volume (\( \rho = \frac{m}{V} \)).
  • Pressure: Force per unit area (\( P = \frac{F}{A} \)).

Buoyancy

  • Objects float or sink based on their density compared to the fluid.

Fluid Dynamics

  • Bernoulli's Principle: In a moving fluid, higher speed means lower pressure.
  • Explains airplane lift and blood flow in arteries.

Everyday Examples

Fluid dynamics is behind weather patterns, breathing, and how submarines dive.

Examples

  • Determining if an object will float in water.

  • Explaining why your ears pop on an airplane.

In a Nutshell

Fluids move and exert forces, with principles that explain everything from blood flow to airplanes.