Nonlinear evolution and breakdown in unstable boundary layers
- 11 July 1980
- journal article
- research article
- Published by Cambridge University Press (CUP) in Journal of Fluid Mechanics
- Vol. 99 (2), 247-265
- https://doi.org/10.1017/s0022112080000602
Abstract
The nonlinear evolution and breakdown of laminar flow in the boundary layer on a flat plate is examined with the aim of making a closer comparison of theory and experiment than has been attempted previously. The importance of three-dimensionality is emphasized. It is concluded that many features of the nonlinear instability are consistent with existing linear and weakly nonlinear theories even as breakdown is approached. The development of the secondary instability, or ‘spike’, is also considered and suggestions for an improved theory of its growth are made.Keywords
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