The formula for mass flow rate is $\dot{m} = \rho A v$, where $\dot{m}$ is the mass flow rate, $\rho$ is the fluid density, $A$ is the cross-sectional area, and $v$ is the fluid velocity.
Mass flow rate remains constant along a streamline in steady-state flow due to conservation of mass.
Incompressible fluids have constant density, simplifying calculations of mass flow rate.
Devices like venturi meters and orifice plates are used to measure mass flow rates in practical applications.
Mass flow rate can be related to volume flow rate by the equation $\dot{m} = \rho Q$, where $Q$ is the volume flow rate.
Review Questions
What formula represents the mass flow rate in terms of density, area, and velocity?
How does conservation of mass affect the mass flow rate along a streamline?
What measurement devices can be used to determine mass flow rate?
Related terms
Volume Flow Rate: The volume of fluid passing through a given surface per unit time, typically measured in cubic meters per second (m³/s).
Continuity Equation: $A_1 v_1 = A_2 v_2$; it expresses the principle of conservation of mass for incompressible fluids.
Bernoulli's Equation: $P + \frac{1}{2}\rho v^2 + \rho gh = \text{constant}$; it relates pressure, velocity, and height in fluid dynamics.