This distinctive text presents the basic principles of fluid mechanics by means of one-dimensional flow examples - differing significantly in style and content from other books. A Primer in Fluid Mechanics contains: an overview of fluid properties and the kinetic theory of gases information on the fundamental equations of fluid mechanics, including historical references and background information introductory discussions on fluid properties and fluid statics a comprehensive chapter on compressible flow a variety of applications on non-steady flow, including non-steady gas dynamics a brief introduction to acoustics Novel provisos in the text include an analysis of the static stability of a floating two-dimensional parabolic section viscous flow through an elastic duct several geometries in non-steady tank draining, including a singular perturbation problem Chapters also discuss physical properties, atmospheric stability, thermodynamics, energy and momentum equations, dimensional analysis, and historical perspectives of flows in pipes and conduits. A Primer in Fluid Mechanics offers a rigorous text for the curious student and for the research engineer seeking a readily available guide to the more refined treatments in the literature - supporting classical and current discussions as well as theoretical and practical concepts.