ABSTRACT
Aims of the chapter 30
Introduction 30
Key applications of science to exercise and sport 31
Scientific principles of liquids 31
Pressure in stationary liquids 32
Buoyancy force and Archimedes’ principle 34
Pascal’s principle 36
Pressure in flowing liquids 37
Bernoulli’s principle 40
Solutes, solutions and concentration 40
Hydrogen ions 42
Application of science to exercise and sport 43
Blood pressure 44
Cardiovascular health 47
Self-test 47
Conclusion 48
Key points 48
Bibliography 49
Further reading 50
CHAPTER CONTENTS
AIMS OF THE CHAPTER
This chapter is designed to provide an understanding of the scientific principles of liquids which are relevant to the theory which underpins exercise and sport. After reading this chapter, you should be able to:
INTRODUCTION
The term ‘fluid’ can be defined as ‘a substance that flows’, which by definition could include gases as well as liquids. There are many examples of exercise and sport activities taking place in a fluid environment, such as swimming, water aerobics, sailing and trampolining. This chapter will, however, refer to fluids only in the context of liquids (see Chapter 2 for discussion of gases), although there will be times when the laws/principles apply equally to gases. To appreciate the laws and principles as applied to gases it is advisable to read this chapter in conjunction with Chapter 2. In instances whereby laws/principles apply not only to a liquid but also a gas, the text will refer to the dual application.
