Graduation Year
2003
Document Type
Open Access Senior Thesis
Degree Name
Bachelor of Science
Department
Mathematics
Reader 1
Andrew Bernoff
Reader 2
Annette Hosoi
Abstract
We investigate the behavior of moving droplets and rivulets, driven by a combination of gravity and surface shear (wind). The problem is motivated by a desire to model the behavior of raindrops on aircraft wings. We begin with the Stokes equations and use the approximations of lubrication theory to derive the specific thin film equation relevant to our situation. This fourth-order partial differential equation describing the height of the fluid is then solved numerically from varying initial conditions, using a fully implicit discretization for time stepping, and a precursor film to avoid singularities at the drop contact line. Results describing general features of droplet deformation, limited parameter studies, and the applicability of our implementation to the long-term goal of modeling wings in rain are discussed.
Recommended Citation
Bryant, Benjamin, "Modeling Moving Droplets: A Precursor Film Approach" (2003). HMC Senior Theses. 142.
https://scholarship.claremont.edu/hmc_theses/142
