Partial Differential Equations
The continuity equation is a fundamental principle in fluid dynamics that expresses the conservation of mass in a flowing fluid. It states that the rate of mass entering a control volume must equal the rate of mass exiting that volume, which can be mathematically represented as $$\frac{\partial \rho}{\partial t} + \nabla \cdot (\rho \mathbf{v}) = 0$$, where $$\rho$$ is the fluid density and $$\mathbf{v}$$ is the flow velocity. This equation plays a crucial role in deriving the Navier-Stokes equations, linking fluid motion and changes in density over time, ensuring that mass is conserved as fluids move and change within a system.
congrats on reading the definition of continuity equation. now let's actually learn it.