Hydrodynamics, Swim Velocity and Power Requirements

Abstract

The discussions in this chapter, which are mainly theoretical arguments of power requirements based on different schemes of drag reduction, are a continuation of some of the empirical results presented in Chapter 10. This chapter will be somewhat different from previous ones in its restriction mainly to general aspects of diving vertebrates. This is because hydrodynamic theory applies to all forms, and because there has been so little experimental work done on reptiles, birds, and mammals. Most of what is discussed below was developed from the much more extensive fish literature, as well as general hydrodynamic theory.