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From Euler to Navier-Stokes: A Spatial Analysis of Conceptual Changes in Nineteenth-century Fluid Dynamics

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Author

Summary, in English

This article provides a spatial analysis of the conceptual framework of fluid dynamics during the nineteenth century, focusing on the transition from the Euler equation to the Navier-Stokes equation. A dynamic version of Peter Gardenfors's theory of conceptual spaces is applied which distinguishes changes of five types: addition and deletion of special laws; change of metric; change in importance; change in separability; addition and deletion of dimensions. The case instantiates all types but the deletion of dimensions. We also provide a new view upon limiting case reduction at the conceptual level that clarifies the relation between the predecessor and successor conceptual framework. The nineteenth-century development of fluid dynamics is argued to be an instance of normal science development.

Publishing year

2014

Language

English

Pages

235-253

Publication/Series

International Studies in the Philosophy of Science

Volume

28

Issue

3

Document type

Journal article

Publisher

Taylor & Francis

Topic

  • Philosophy

Status

Published

ISBN/ISSN/Other

  • ISSN: 0269-8595