Definition of Porous Media — Lesson 1

This lesson covers the concept of flow through porous media, explaining what constitutes a porous media and the parameters that describe it. The lesson delves into the importance of understanding how a fluid flows through a porous media, using examples such as the human body and the earth. It introduces the concept of porosity, explaining how it is calculated and its significance in understanding flow through porous media. The lesson also discusses the concepts of superficial and interstitial velocity, and introduces Darcy's Law, which describes the flow of fluid through a porous medium.

Video Highlights

00:24 - Introduction to the course and definition of porous media
04:46 - Explanation of porosity and its calculation
12:36 - Discussion on superficial and interstitial velocity
22:03 - Introduction to Darcy's Law

Key Takeaways

- Porous media is a material containing interstitial spaces that allow for fluid flow. Examples include the human body and the earth.
- Porosity is a key parameter in understanding porous media. It is calculated as the volume of the void space divided by the total volume.
- Superficial velocity is the total flow rate divided by the total cross-sectional area, while interstitial velocity is the total flow rate divided by the area available for flow.
- Darcy's Law describes the flow of fluid through a porous medium, relating the superficial velocity to the pressure gradient and the permeability of the medium.