Heating from above in non-scattering suspension: Phototactic bioconvection under collimated irradiation

Abstract

Examining phototactic bioconvection in non-scattering suspensions with upper heating and collimated irradiation, this study delves into the intricate dynamics influenced by light and microorganisms. The study focuses on the linear stability of the basic state, examining neutral curves. The numerical analysis involves solving a system of equations using the MATLAB bvp4c solver. The investigation considers the impact of parameters, such as the thermal Rayleigh number, critical total intensity, and Lewis number, on the critical bioconvection Rayleigh number. As the critical total intensity varies, a transition from a stationary to an oscillatory solution (and vice versa) is observed. Phototactic microorganisms are incorporated into the model, and the results show how varying parameters affect convection patterns and stability. The findings reveal interesting phenomena, including Hopf bifurcations and limit cycles.