TUESDAY, February 27, 2007
Time: 2:50 PM
ECS 1202

Title: Viscous Effects on Interfacial Motion

Jim Wang
Duke University

We consider the interfacial motion between two incompressible, slightly viscous fluids, such as air and water. The problem is formulated by Navier-Stokes equations together with hydrodynamic interfacial conditions. We will first discuss some results from linear analysis. Then we will present a new numerical method for the simulation of the fully nonlinear problem. This method ensures an accurate representation of the evolving interface, and allows large density ratios and high Reynolds numbers. With this algorithm, traveling waves, such as Stokes waves, can be followed sufficiently in time to reveal the effects of small viscosity. The numerical observation is then justified by deriving a formal asymptotic theory.