Question:
The potential flow theory assumes that the flow is ______.
The potential flow theory assumes that the flow is ______.
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Recall the three conditions needed for a velocity potential function to exist.
Updated On: Jul 28, 2026
- irrotational, inviscid and incompressible
- rotational, viscous and incompressible
- rotational, viscous and compressible
- irrotational, inviscid and compressible
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The Correct Option is A
Solution and Explanation
This question checks the three defining assumptions behind potential flow theory, used to simplify the equations of fluid motion.
- irrotational, inviscid and incompressible: Potential flow theory assumes the fluid has no viscosity (inviscid), particles do not rotate about their own axis (irrotational), and density stays constant (incompressible). These three assumptions let the flow be described by a single velocity potential. This is correct.
- rotational, viscous and incompressible: A rotational, viscous flow needs the full Navier-Stokes equations with vorticity terms, exactly what potential flow theory is built to avoid, so this option is wrong.
- rotational, viscous and compressible: This adds compressibility on top of rotation and viscosity, moving even further from the simplifications potential flow relies on, so this option is wrong.
- irrotational, inviscid and compressible: Potential flow keeps density constant; allowing compressibility here breaks the standard assumption set, so this option is wrong.
The correct choice is (A): potential flow theory assumes an irrotational, inviscid and incompressible fluid.
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