16.17: PROBLEM DEFINITION
Stress, as introduced in the derivation of the Navier-Stokes equation, is a second-order
tensor. Using the internet, finds some articles on tensors and answer the following
questions:
•Why do people use tensors? What are the benefits?
•What does tensor mean? How is a tensor defined?
•What are five examples of tensors as they are applied in engineering and physics?
SOLUTION
•Benefit of using tensors (multiple possible answers; some given below)
—Compact notation.
•Meaning of a tensor.
—A mathematical entity analogous to but more general than a vector, rep-
resented by an array of components that are functions of the coordinates
of a space.
∗A zeroth order tensor (scalar) has one component.
•Examples of tensors in engineering
—Thermal conductivity (general form) is a 2nd order tensor.
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