Fluid Dynamics: Part 4: Hydrodynamic Stability Theory

The fourth volume in a four-part series on fluid dynamics covers hydrodynamic stability theory, which aims to predict the conditions under which a laminar flow turns into a turbulent state. It starts with classical results and then discusses recent developments in the theory, including linear and nonlinear critical layer theory, the theory of receptivity of the boundary layer to external perturbations, weakly nonlinear stability theory of Landau and Stuart, and vortex-wave interaction theory.

Format: Hardback
Length: 368 pages
Publication date: 03 July 2023
Publisher: Oxford University Press

Part 4 of the series on fluid dynamics focuses on hydrodynamic stability theory, which aims to predict the conditions under which a laminar flow becomes turbulent. This phenomenon is of significant importance in modern physics, as it can lead to a fivefold increase in viscous drag in certain situations, such as the flow past a passenger aircraft wing. The book begins with classical results of the theory, including global stability analysis and the derivation of the Orr-Sommerfeld equation. The properties of this equation are discussed using examples such as plane Poiseuille flow and the Blasius boundary layer. In addition, we discuss inviscid flow instability governed by the Rayleigh equation, Kelvin-Helmholtz instability, crossflow instability, and centrifugal instability, taking the form of Taylor-Görtler vortices. However, our main attention in this presentation is on recent developments in the theory. These include linear and nonlinear critical layer theory, the theory of receptivity of the boundary layer to external perturbations, weakly nonlinear stability theory of Landau and Stuart, and vortex-wave interactions.

Weight: 870g
Dimension: 175 x 253 x 27 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780198869948