Modern Developments in Fluid Dynamics

Abstract

THE present work is dedicated to the memory of Horace Lamb, the father of classical dynamics, whose fundamental work, “A Treatise of the Mathematical Theory of the Motion of Fluids”., appeared in six English editions as well as in several foreign translations and is in the hands of every specialist in the theory of fluid motion. By ‘classical’ hydrodynamics, we understand the hydrodynamics of the nineteenth century in contrast to that of the twentieth, which is distinguished chiefly by a more detailed and at the same time extensive study of the. influence of viscosity, particularly in the case of fluids of small viscosity, so that a much nearer approach to reality has been attained. Even those parts of the modern theory which are fundamental for the ideal frictionless fluid have been enriched in very important points by new research. Here, the knowledge of the existence and behaviour of surfaces of separation was effective in the discovery of new ways in which to obtain practical results.

Modern Developments in Fluid Dynamics

An Account of Theory and Experiment relating to Boundary Layers, Turbulent Motion and Wakes. Composed by the Fluid Motion Panel of the Aeronautical Research Committee and others, and edited by S. Goldstein. (Oxford Engineering Science Series.) Vol. 1. Pp. xxiv + 330 + 29 plates. Vol. 2. Pp. xii + 331-702 + plates 30-35. (Oxford: Clarendon Press; London: Oxford University Press, 1938.) 50s. net.