The complex models and perspectives involved in the study of soft matter are thoroughly considered in this course. You will explore the two approaches to polymer concentrations, as well as the different regimes of polymer solutions. The Lagrangian and Eulerian perspectives are also covered by the material. Demonstrations, problems, examples and assessment questions in this instructor-led video-based course are designed to provide you with a complete grounding in understanding soft condensed matter.

You will study the definitions of polymers and polymer solutions, and you will explore the Maxwell and Kelvin-Voigt viscoelastic models. Then, the Lagrangian and Eulerian perspectives are discussed, which are two common ways of studying a moving fluid or a deforming body. You will explore whether, in the viscoelastic solid type response, the stress relaxation function always decays down to zero or not.

Next, you will gain insight into three-parameter model equations and you will discover the importance of understanding the Laplace Transform. Finally, you will study two Maxwell models, system displacement, and Jefferey’s fluid model. This course will be of interest to mechanical engineering students, or those working in fluid mechanics or continuum mechanics.