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MAE3001 · Aero and gas dynamics

Official Handbook

2026 Handbook6 credit pointsLevel 3Department of Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering

Last checked: 23 Aug 2026 UTC

Overview

In this unit, you gain the physical and analytical understanding that forms the basis for low- and high-speed aerodynamic flows, and you learn to translate that into the ability to formulate, analyse, and solve aerodynamics problems. You are introduced to the definition of aerodynamic variables and coefficients, similarity laws and scaling, and the laws that govern compressible and incompressible inviscid flows. Solutions for aerodynamic problems are developed based on the Laplace equation for potential flows and principles of superposition, including thin aerofoil and finite wing theory, normal and oblique shocks, expansion waves, and linearised supersonic flow.

Areas of study: E3001 Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) - Specialisation: Aerospace engineering

Offerings

The Handbook publishes no offerings for this unit.

Assessment

The Handbook lists an examination for this unit.

#AssessmentTypeWeightHurdle
1In-class testQuiz / Test20%
2ReportWritten20%
3Final examExamination60%

Continuous assessment: 40% Final assessment: 60%

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

prohibitions

prerequisite

Joined by OR.

Learning outcomes

  1. Identify the conservation laws relevant to inviscid aerodynamic flows and gas dynamics.
  2. Use the principle of the conservation of energy to predict the performance of aerospace systems.
  3. Apply potential flow theory to the prediction of lift and induced drag generated by airfoils and wings.
  4. Apply conservation principles to predict the behaviour of 1D shock and expansion waves.
  5. Apply the quasi-1D approximation principle to design supersonic nozzles (eg rocket propulsion), wind tunnels and diffusers.

Workload

The minimum total expected workload to achieve the learning outcomes for this unit is 144 hours per semester typically comprising a mixture of 3-6 hours of scheduled learning activities and 6-9 hours of independent study per week. Scheduled activities may include a combination of teacher-directed learning, peer-directed learning and online engagement. Independent study may include associated readings, assessment and preparation for scheduled activities.

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