Intermezzo: Effects of Increasing Reynolds Number

Abstract

Effects of increasing fluid speed are analyzed. The Bernouilli and vorticity equations are derived, and the method of matching solutions is described for the Rankine vortex. Cases in which rotational flow is mandatory are explained, and bifurcations, hydraulic jumps, and transitions between stable and unstable behaviors are introduced. The ethical views of Hans Bethe and Edward Teller are contrasted. Other topics include potential flow around both cylinders and spheres and lessons that can be learnt about flow over a wavy streambed.