Lord Rayleigh and hydrodynamic similarity

Abstract

The history of two domains in fluid mechanics, in which Lord Rayleigh made explicit use of hydrodynamic similarity, are investigated: the theory of aerodynamic drag and the treatment of the aeolian tones. The great impact of Rayleigh’s ideas on the development of hydrodynamic similarity theory and applications is described, during his lifetime and beyond. Many historical details involving Lord Rayleigh’s contemporaries are also presented in an attempt to give a vivid description of a crucial epoch in the history of fluid mechanics. A brief description of certain modern developments is appended.