Outline

Overview

The objective of this unit of study is to develop an understanding of basic fluid concepts for inviscid and incompressible fluids. Topics to be covered will include: basic fluid properties, hydrostatics, buoyancy, stability, pressure distribution in a fluid with rigid body motion, fluid dynamics, conservation of mass and momentum, dimensional analysis, open channel flow, and pipe flow. This core unit of study together with CIVL3612 forms the basis for further studies in the applied areas of ocean, coastal and wind engineering and other elective fluid mechanics units which may be offered.

Unit details and rules

Academic unit	Civil Engineering
Credit points	6
Prerequisites ?	None
Corequisites ?	None
Prohibitions ?	None
Assumed knowledge ?	Equivalent to the content of CIVL1802, MATH1061, MATH1062, MATH2061, PHYS1001 and CIVL2201. This includes basic mechanics (statics and dynamics); calculus, including differentiation; integration (single and double integrations) and simple differential equations; vector calculus; and basic physics. Students without this background should see the unit of study coordinator for a discussion
Available to study abroad and exchange students	Yes

Teaching staff

Coordinator	Chengwang Lei, chengwang.lei@sydney.edu.au

Assessment

The census date for this unit availability is 31 August 2026

Details
Criteria

Type	Description	Weight	Due	Length	Use of AI
Written exam	Final Exam A close-book exam in the formal exam period	50%	Formal exam period	2 hours	AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed:
Out-of-class quiz	Early Feedback Task Week 1 Assignment on Canvas (WA01)	2%	Week 03 Due date: 21 Aug 2026 at 23:59	9 questions	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
In-person practical, skills, or performance task or test	Timetabled Quiz Supervised exam taking place in a timetabled session	10%	Week 08 Due date: 25 Sep 2026 at 16:00	60 minutes	AI prohibited
Outcomes assessed:
Portfolio or journal	Lab Report Individual report on Bernoulli Theorem Demonstration	6%	Week 10 Due date: 12 Oct 2026 at 23:59	To be specified separately	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
Out-of-class quiz	Weekly Assignment (Online) Weekly Assignment on Canvas	20%	Weekly	Varies from week to week	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
In-class quiz	In-Class Submission Solutions to short questions collected during tutorial sessions	12%	Weekly	Varies from week to week	AI allowed
Outcomes assessed:
= hurdle task ? = early feedback task ?

Early feedback task

This unit includes an early feedback task, designed to give you feedback prior to the census date for this unit. Details are provided in the Canvas site and your result will be recorded in your Marks page. It is important that you actively engage with this task so that the University can support you to be successful in this unit.

Assessment summary

Early Feedback Task: This will be offered as an online quiz (WA01), opening in Week 2 and closing in Week 3. Students are encouraged to meet with the unit of study coordinator to discuss their performance and concerns following the close of the Early Feedback Task.

Assignments: Weekly Assignments will be posted on Canvas with specified deadlines. In-Class Submissions will be collected at tutorials. Both Weekly Assignments and In-Class Submissions are counted towards the final result.

Lab Reports: There is one written report on Bernoulli Theorem Demonstration. All students are required to participate in the physical lab demonstration and submit a report afterwards.

Timetabled Quiz: This is an in-person paper-based exam and will be invigilated. Details about the formats and contents of the quiz will be announced in class and on Canvas.

Final Exam: The Final Exam will be a supervised close-book Exam, which will cover all topics of this unit of study.

Refer to Supplementary Information (available on Canvas) for further details of each assessment.

Criteria for Passing the Unit of Study

To achieve a ‘Pass’ grade in this unit of study, the following criteria MUST be satisfied:

Achieving minimum 40% in the Final Exam
Having an overall mark ≥ 50%

Students who do not meet the above criteria will not receive a ‘Pass’ grade in this unit of study, and regardless of their performance in individual components, will not receive a mark greater than 47%.

Assessment criteria

The University awards common result grades, set out in the Coursework Policy 2014 (Schedule 1).

As a general guide, a high distinction indicates work of an exceptional standard, a distinction a very high standard, a credit a good standard, and a pass an acceptable standard.

Result name	Mark range	Description
High distinction	85 - 100
Distinction	75 - 84
Credit	65 - 74
Pass	50 - 64
Fail	0 - 49	When you don’t meet the learning outcomes of the unit to a satisfactory standard.

For more information see sydney.edu.au/students/guide-to-grades.

For more information see guide to grades.

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

You can use generative AI tools for open assessments. Restrictions on AI use apply to secure, supervised assessments used to confirm if students have met specific learning outcomes.

Refer to the assessment table above to see if AI is allowed, for assessments in this unit and check Canvas for full instructions on assessment tasks and AI use.

If you use AI, you must always acknowledge it. Misusing AI may lead to a breach of the Academic Integrity Policy.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

Late submission

In accordance with University policy, these penalties apply when written work is submitted after 11:59pm on the due date:

Deduction of 5% of the maximum mark for each calendar day after the due date.
After ten calendar days late, a mark of zero will be awarded.

This unit has an exception to the standard University policy or supplementary information has been provided by the unit coordinator. This information is displayed below:

The University's standard late penalty rate will be applied for late submissions of assessments.

Academic integrity

The University expects students to act ethically and honestly and will treat all allegations of academic integrity breaches seriously.

Our website provides information on academic integrity and the resources available to all students. This includes advice on how to avoid common breaches of academic integrity. Ensure that you have completed the Academic Honesty Education Module (AHEM) which is mandatory for all commencing coursework students

Penalties for serious breaches can significantly impact your studies and your career after graduation. It is important that you speak with your unit coordinator if you need help with completing assessments.

Visit the Current Students website for more information on AI in assessments, including details on how to acknowledge its use.

Learning support

Simple extensions

If you encounter a problem submitting your work on time, you may be able to apply for an extension of five calendar days through a simple extension.  The application process will be different depending on the type of assessment and extensions cannot be granted for some assessment types like exams.

Special consideration

If exceptional circumstances mean you can’t complete an assessment, you need consideration for a longer period of time, or if you have essential commitments which impact your performance in an assessment, you may be eligible for special consideration or special arrangements.

Special consideration applications will not be affected by a simple extension application.

Using AI responsibly

Co-created with students, AI in Education includes lots of helpful examples of how students use generative AI tools to support their learning. It explains how generative AI works, the different tools available and how to use them responsibly and productively.

Support for students

The Support for Students Policy reflects the University’s commitment to supporting students in their academic journey and making the University safe for students. It is important that you read and understand this policy so that you are familiar with the range of support services available to you and understand how to engage with them.

The University uses email as its primary source of communication with students who need support under the Support for Students Policy. Make sure you check your University email regularly and respond to any communications received from the University.

Learning resources and detailed information about weekly assessment and learning activities can be accessed via Canvas. It is essential that you visit your unit of study Canvas site to ensure you are up to date with all of your tasks.

If you are having difficulties completing your studies, or are feeling unsure about your progress, we are here to help. You can access the support services offered by the University at any time:

Support and Services (including health and wellbeing services, financial support and learning support)
Course planning and administration
Meet with an Academic Adviser

Weekly schedule

WK	Topic	Learning activity
Week 01	Introduction of fluid mechanics	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 01	Introduction of fluid mechanics	Tutorial (2 hr)
Week 02	Fluid properties and hydrostatics	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 02	Fluid properties and hydrostatics	Tutorial (2 hr)
Week 03	Hydrostatic forces on submerged surfaces	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 03	Hydrostatic forces on submerged surfaces	Tutorial (2 hr)
Week 04	Buoyancy and stability	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 04	Buoyancy and stability	Tutorial (2 hr)
Week 05	Fluids in motion	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 05	Fluids in motion	Tutorial (2 hr)
Week 06	Bernoulli Theorem	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 06	Bernoulli Theorem	Tutorial (2 hr)
Week 07	Dimensional analysis	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 07	Dimensional analysis	Tutorial (2 hr)
Week 08	Modelling and similitude	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 08	Modelling and similitude	Tutorial (2 hr)
Week 09	Reynolds transport theorem and mass conservation	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 09	Reynolds transport theorem and mass conservation	Tutorial (2 hr)
Week 10	Conservation of linear momentum	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 10	Conservation of linear momentum	Tutorial (2 hr)
Week 11	Open channel flow	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 11	Open channel flow	Tutorial (2 hr)
Week 12	Flow in pipes	Lecture (2 hr)
Week 12	Flow in pipes	Tutorial (2 hr)
Week 13	Review	Lecture (2 hr)

Attendance and class requirements

Study commitment: There will be weekly lectures (2 hours) and weekly tutorials (2 hours). In-class submissions are only accepted from students who are attending the correct tutorial sessions. All students are required to participate in the physical lab of Bernoulli Theorem Demonstration and submit a report afterwards.

Study commitment

Typically, there is a minimum expectation of 1.5-2 hours of student effort per week per credit point for units of study offered over a full semester. For a 6 credit point unit, this equates to roughly 120-150 hours of student effort in total.

Required readings

The details of the prescribed textbook are given below:

Title: Fundamentals of Fluid Mechanics, (9th Ed., SI version)

Authors: Andrew L. Gerhart, John I. Hochstein, Philip M. Gerhart

ISBN: 978-1-119-70326-6

ISBN: 978-1-119-70327-3 (ePub)

ISBN: 978-1-119-76714-5 (ePdf)

Publisher: Wiley

e-Text option is available by clicking this Link to e-Text.

Other editions of the textbook may also be used. The SciTech Library has a good collection of resources related to Fluid Mechanics including many textbooks and other reference materials. You are encouraged to take advantage of these resources.

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes are what students know, understand and are able to do on completion of a unit of study. They are aligned with the University's graduate qualities and are assessed as part of the curriculum.

Outcomes
Graduate qualities

At the completion of this unit, you should be able to:

LO1. Understand fundamental properties of fluid and how they may influence fluid behaviour
LO2. Calculate hydrostatic and buoyancy forces on fully and partly submerged bodies
LO3. Understand the physical meaning and limitations of Bernoulli Theorem and apply Bernoulli theorem to solve fluid flow problems.
LO4. Understand the significance of dimensional analysis and apply Buckingham pi Theorem to simplify fluid flow problems
LO5. Understand the conservation laws of mass and linear momentum in the context of fluid flows and use these principles in fluid flow calculations.
LO6. Carry out basic calculations of open channel flows and pipe flows using provided formulae

Graduate qualities

The graduate qualities are the qualities and skills that all University of Sydney graduates must demonstrate on successful completion of an award course. As a future Sydney graduate, the set of qualities have been designed to equip you for the contemporary world.

GQ1	Depth of disciplinary expertise Deep disciplinary expertise is the ability to integrate and rigorously apply knowledge, understanding and skills of a recognised discipline defined by scholarly activity, as well as familiarity with evolving practice of the discipline.
GQ2	Critical thinking and problem solving Critical thinking and problem solving are the questioning of ideas, evidence and assumptions in order to propose and evaluate hypotheses or alternative arguments before formulating a conclusion or a solution to an identified problem.
GQ3	Oral and written communication Effective communication, in both oral and written form, is the clear exchange of meaning in a manner that is appropriate to audience and context.
GQ4	Information and digital literacy Information and digital literacy is the ability to locate, interpret, evaluate, manage, adapt, integrate, create and convey information using appropriate resources, tools and strategies.
GQ5	Inventiveness Generating novel ideas and solutions.
GQ6	Cultural competence Cultural Competence is the ability to actively, ethically, respectfully, and successfully engage across and between cultures. In the Australian context, this includes and celebrates Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures, knowledge systems, and a mature understanding of contemporary issues.
GQ7	Interdisciplinary effectiveness Interdisciplinary effectiveness is the integration and synthesis of multiple viewpoints and practices, working effectively across disciplinary boundaries.
GQ8	Integrated professional, ethical, and personal identity An integrated professional, ethical and personal identity is understanding the interaction between one’s personal and professional selves in an ethical context.
GQ9	Influence Engaging others in a process, idea or vision.

Outcome map

Learning outcomes	Graduate qualities
Learning outcomes

Responding to student feedback

This section outlines changes made to this unit following staff and student reviews.

The assessment structure has been revised and the weightings of assessments have been adjusted. The criteria for passing the unit have been simplified.

Additional information

Work, health and safety

Fully-enclosed shoes must be worn when attending the physical lab of Bernoulli Theorem Demonstration.

Disclaimer

Important: the University of Sydney regularly reviews units of study and reserves the right to change the units of study available annually. To stay up to date on available study options, including unit of study details and availability, refer to the relevant handbook.

To help you understand common terms that we use at the University, we offer an online glossary.

Current students

Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

Early feedback task

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Weekly schedule

Attendance and class requirements

Study commitment

Required readings

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Responding to student feedback

Responding to student feedback

Additional information

Additional information

Work, health and safety

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links

CIVL2611: Introductory Fluid Mechanics

Semester 2, 2026 [Normal day] - Camperdown/Darlington, Sydney

Overview

Overview

Unit details and rules

Teaching staff

Assessment

Assessment

Early feedback task

Assessment summary

Assessment criteria

Use of generative artificial intelligence (AI)

Late submission

Academic integrity

Learning support

Learning support

Simple extensions

Special consideration

Using AI responsibly

Support for students

Weekly schedule

Weekly schedule

Attendance and class requirements

Study commitment

Required readings

Learning outcomes

Learning outcomes

Graduate qualities

Outcome map

Responding to student feedback

Responding to student feedback

Additional information

Additional information

Work, health and safety

Disclaimer

On this page

Useful links