A numerical model for the axisymmetric equilibrium shape of drops in uniform motion: Effects of external flow, electric field and surface charge

In the past the best models of raindrop shapes were based on a perturbation form of Laplace's formula valid only for small amplitude distortion from the effect of an aerodynamic pressure around a sphere. In contrast, the current force balance model uses the complete form of differential Laplace's formula and includes adjustments to the aerodynamic pressure distribution for the effects of drop distortion and Reynolds number. The raindrop shapes under the influence of vertical electric fields and drop charges has also been investigated. A finite volume method with numerically generated transformation to a boundary-fitted coordinate system was used to calculate the shape-dependent electric field. Sufficient constraints (viz, drop volume, overall force balance, and shape-dependent surface distributions of aerodynamic and electrostatic stresses) allow the calculation of a unique shape by integration from the upper to lower pole of raindrop using a multiple iteration scheme.

Name thesis:degree_name

Ph.D.

Level thesis:degree_level

Dissertation

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Atmospheric Science

Grantor

University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

Year dc:date

2011

Author dc:creator

• Chuang, Chien-Hua Catherine

Contributors dc:contributor

• Beard, Kenneth V.

• Physics, Atmospheric Science

Statement dc:rights

• Copyright 1989 Chuang, Chien-Hua Catherine

Language dc:language

eng

Identifier

AAI8916231
(UMI)AAI8916231

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:www.ideals.illinois.edu:2142/20992