Abstract
PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to investigate the stability of a suspension containing both gyrotactic and oxytactic microorganisms for the case when the suspension occupies a horizontal layer of finite depth. The lower boundary of the layer is assumed rigid while at the upper boundary both situations of rigid and stress‐free boundary conditions are considered.Design/methodology/approachLinear instability analysis is utilized, and the obtained eigenvalue problem is solved analytically using a one‐term Galerkin method.FindingsThe obtained eigenvalue equation relates three Rayleigh numbers, the traditional thermal Rayleigh number and two bioconvection Rayleigh numbers, for gyrotactic and oxytactic microorganisms.Research limitations/implicationsOnly the case of non‐oscillatory instability (which always occurs when heating from the bottom is considered) is analyzed. Further experimental research is needed to elucidate possible interaction between gyrotactic and oxytactic microorganisms. The developed theory is applicable only for dilute suspensions.Originality/valueThis paper extends the traditional theory of bio‐thermal convection to the case when the suspension contains two types of motile microorganisms exhibiting different behaviors.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
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 callMore From: International Journal of Numerical Methods for Heat & Fluid Flow
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
