Kelvin–Helmholtz instability of finite amplitude

Abstract

Non-linear Kelvin–Helmholtz instability, of two parallel horizontal streams of inviscid incompressible fluids under the action of gravity, is studied theoretically. The lower stream is denser and there is surface tension between the streams. Some progressing waves of finite amplitude are found as the development of a slightly unstable wave of infinitesimal amplitude. In particular, the non-linear elevation of the interface between the fluids is calculated. The finite amplitude of the waves does not equilibrate to a constant after a long time, but varies periodically with time. In practice, slight dissipation should lead to equilibration at an amplitude close to a value given by the present theory.