Non-similar Boundary Layers over a Wedge due to Thermophoresis and Viscosity Effects

Abstract

Background/Objectives: The objective of the present work is to investigate the effects of the thermophoresis and the fluid viscosity on a forced convection heat and mass transfer on non-similar flow past a permeable wedge embedded in a porous medium. Methods of Analysis: The analysis is conducted by using a local non-similarity scheme of the second level truncation in the presence of thermophoresis and variable viscosity. The governing equations of the non-similar convection are presented in the dimensionless form by applying Falkner-Skan variable to obtain the set of ordinary differential equations. Runge-Kutta-Gill in conjunction with shooting method is applied to find a skin friction, rate of heat and mass transfer. The initial value problems are solved numerically using Runge Kutta-Fehlberg methods and presented graphically. Findings: The thermophoresis has significant effect to speed up the process for decreasing concentration significantly, while the effects of viscosity is to increase or decrease the velocity of fluid depend on the value of viscosity parameter, positive or negative, respectively. Validation is conducted by comparing the current works with previous works and found that the results are in excellent agreement. The conclusion is drawn that the non-similar velocity and the concentration of fluid are significantly affected by thermophoresis and viscosity. Application/Improvements: The results of an analysis on the effects of thermophoresis and viscosity on boundary layer flow over solid surfaces can be applied to design an instrument to remove pollutants from environment