Formation of dissipative structures in a three-dimensional electro-thermo-convective flow
Kang Luo, Xue-Lin Gao, Xuerao He, Hong-Liang Yi, Jian Wu
Abstract
Three-dimensional electro-thermo-convective flow between two parallel plates under a simultaneously applied voltage and temperature difference is studied with linear stability analysis, direct numerical simulations, and computation of local entropy generation. An infinitesimal random perturbation is found to grow into a rolls pattern, then partially break up into polygons, and finally evolve into hexagons. The rolls pattern always has a larger total entropy generation and mean-square temperature gradient than the hexagon pattern, indicating that the rolls pattern is relatively more stable under these conditions.
Topics & Concepts
ConvectionConvective flowMechanicsComputationInfinitesimalDissipative systemEntropy (arrow of time)Temperature gradientPerturbation (astronomy)Materials sciencePhysicsMathematicsGeometryThermodynamicsMathematical analysisMeteorologyAlgorithmQuantum mechanicsLattice Boltzmann Simulation StudiesNanofluid Flow and Heat TransferFluid Dynamics and Turbulent Flows