Teaching Computational Fluid Dynamics Using Spreadsheets

Abstract

The use of spreadsheet programs in teaching the numerical aspects of computational fluid dynamics is explored. Spreadsheets allow the student to investigate important features of numerical algorithms without having to invest the time required to code in a traditional programming language. Thus they represent a short cut to the experiential part of the learning cycle. Four examples are presented with detailed methodology and learning outcomes, including solutions to the basic partial differential equations for fluid flow and iterative techniques for matrix inversion.