Segment V9.2: Streamlined and Blunt Bodies

(Related to Textbook Section 9.1.2 - Characteristics of Flow Past an Object)

It is sometimes desirable to make an object as streamlined as possible. In other situations a blunt object is desired. Typically, streamlined objects have less drag than blunt objects.

A kayak is a streamlined object that moves through the water with minimal resistance and disturbance to the fluid. It requires a relatively small propulsive force. The purpose of the paddle is to impart the propulsive force to the kayak. To do so it must generate a relatively large resistance to motion through the water. A paddle is a blunt object. The Reynolds numbers for the paddle and the kayak are on the order of 100,000 to 1,000,000.