The Linearization Method In Hydrodynamical Stability Theory

This book presents the theory of the linearization method as applied to the problem of steady-state and periodic motions of continuous media. The author proves infinite-dimensional analogues of Lyapunov's theorems on stability, instability, and conditional stability for a large class of continuous media. In addition, semigroup properties for the linearized Navier-Stokes equations in the case of an incompressible fluid are studied, and coercivity inequalities and completeness of a system of small oscillations are proved.

This book presents the theory of the linearization method as applied to the problem of steady-state and periodic motions of continuous media. The author proves infinite-dimensional analogues of Lyapunov's theorems on stability, instability, and conditional stability for a large class of continuous media. In addition, semigroup properties for the linearized Navier-Stokes equations in the case of an incompressible fluid are studied, and coercivity inequalities and completeness of a system of small oscillations are proved.

The entire book is a proof of one theorem about the asymptotic shape of a droplet. The Wulff construction yields the shape of a crystal in equilibrium and allows one to understand its main features. An interesting phenomenon of crystals discussed is the roughening transition, that is when a facet of crystal disappears as temperature increases. Topics include external properties of the Wulff functional, limit theorems, surface tension, and large contours. No index. Annotation copyright by Book News, Inc., Portland, OR

The great number of varied approaches to hydrodynamic stability theory appear as a bulk of results whose classification and discussion are well-known in the literature. Several books deal with one aspect of this theory alone (e.g. the linear case, the influence of temperature and magnetic field, large classes of globally stable fluid motions etc.). The aim of this book is to provide a complete mathe matical treatment of hydrodynamic stability theory by combining the early results of engineers and applied mathematicians with the recent achievements of pure mathematicians. In order to ensure a more operational frame to this theory I have briefly outlined the main results concerning the stability of the simplest types of flow. I have attempted several definitions of the stability of fluid flows with due consideration of the connections between them. On the other hand, as the large number of initial and boundary value problems in hydrodynamic stability theory requires appropriate treat ments, most of this book is devoted to the main concepts and methods used in hydrodynamic stability theory. Open problems are expressed in both mathematical and physical terms.

The study of hydrodynamic stability is fundamental to many subjects, ranging from geophysics and meteorology through to engineering design. This treatise covers both classical and modern aspects of the subject, systematically developing it from the simplest physical problems, then progressing to the most complex, considering linear and nonlinear situations, and analyzing temporal and spatial stability. The authors examine each problem both analytically and numerically. Many relevant fluid flows are treated, including those where the fluid may be compressible, or those from geophysics, or those that require salient geometries for description. Details of initial-value problems are explored equally with those of stability. The text includes copious illustrations and an extensive bibliography, making it suitable for courses on hydrodynamic stability or as an authoritative reference for researchers. In this second edition the opportunity has been taken to update the text and, most importantly, provide solutions to the numerous extended exercises.

The study of hydrodynamic stability is fundamental to many subjects, ranging from geophysics and meteorology through to engineering design. This treatise covers both classical and modern aspects of the subject, systematically developing it from the simplest physical problems, then progressing chapter by chapter to the most complex, considering linear and nonlinear situations, and analysing temporal and spatial stability. The authors examine each problem both analytically and numerically: many chapters end with an appendix outlining relevant numerical techniques. All relevant fluid flows are treated, including those where the fluid may be compressible, or those from geophysics, or those that require salient geometries for description. Details of initial-value problems are explored equally with those of stability. As a result, the early transient period as well as the asymptotic fate for perturbations for a flow can be assessed. The text is enriched with many exercises, copious illustrations and an extensive bibliography and the result is a book that can be used with courses on hydrodynamic stability or as an authoritative reference for researchers.

Publisher Description

The material provides an historical background to forecasting developments as well as introducing recent advances. The book will be of interest to both mathematicians and physicians, the topics covered include equations of dynamical meteorology, first integrals, non-linear stability, well-posedness of boundary problems, non-smooth solutions, parameters and free oscillations, meteorological data processing, methods of approximation and interpolation and numerical methods for forecast modelling.