Similitude criteria for free convective heat and mass transfer

Abstract

Similitude criteria for free convective transfers and their corresponding dimensionless parameters are established. A need for distinction between the correctly designed parameters (to assure similitude) and standard non-dimensional ones is emphasized. An illustrative example of transient free convection points out the difficulties which may arise through the use of unsuitable dimensionless parameters; so we show that the dimensionless thermal boundary layer thickness does not vary with the Prandtl number, in the same way as the true dimensioned thickness does. Copyright © 2002 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.