Abstract
Stability to infinitesimal disturbances, when a parallel magnetic field is imposed, is investigated for the free boundary-layer type flows, of low magnetic Reynolds number, between two unbounded parallel streams of a viscous, incompressible, electrically conducting fluid. Neutral stability curves are calculated for small wave-number making use of the limiting profile: previous results by another author are found to be incomplete. A qualitative neutral stability picture is conjectured for other values of the wave-number and, granted a certain part of this conjecture, the conclusion is that the critical Reynolds number remains zero until the parameter Q/R exceeds the value (Q/R)crit [eDot ] 0·0233. It is suggested that a sufficiently strong magnetic field can stabilize a flow of any finite Reynolds number.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
