Integrating the Stokeslet: Solving Expression 7 from ResearchGate Publication

In summary, the conversation discusses the integration of the Stokeslet, which is a tensor field defined in equation (7). The Green's function solution to the Navier-Stokes equation is presented in terms of a forcing term, and the case of a monopole forcing term is considered. Using the definitions of ##r## and ##\hat{\mathbf{r}}##, the result is simplified and shown to be equal to the quoted result. The conversation expresses curiosity about the integration process and requests clarification on how the integral equals what it does.
  • #1
steve1763
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TL;DR Summary
I'm having trouble figuring out this integral. The fact that we are integrating vectors, absolute values, tensor products etc doesnt help.
https://www.researchgate.net/publication/301874096_Emergent_behavior_in_active_colloids/link/5730bb3608ae08415e6a7c0a/download (expression 9 on this document derivation). I understand the need for substitution etc into the integral. What puzzles me is how the integral equals what it does. If somebody could show me how to solve the integral that would be brilliant.

Perhaps a quicker question would be, how does one integrate the Stokeslet? If its value is that of expression 7.

Thank you
 
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  • #2
The tensor field ##\mathbf{O}(\mathbf{r})## is defined in equation ##(7)##,\begin{align*}
\mathbf{O}(\mathbf{r}) \equiv \frac{1}{8\pi \eta}\left( \frac{1}{r} \mathbf{1} + \frac{1}{r^3} \mathbf{r} \otimes \mathbf{r} \right)
\end{align*}The Green's function solution to the Navier-Stokes equation in terms of a forcing term ##\mathbf{f}## is \begin{align*}
\mathbf{v}(\mathbf{r}, t) = \int \mathbf{O}(\mathbf{r} - \mathbf{r}') \mathbf{f}(\mathbf{r}',t) d^3 x'
\end{align*}They consider a monopole forcing term ##\mathbf{f} = f\mathbf{e} \delta(\mathbf{r} - \mathbf{r}_0)## localised at ##\mathbf{r}_0##. In this case you have\begin{align*}
\mathbf{v}(\mathbf{r}, t) &= \int \mathbf{O}(\mathbf{r} - \mathbf{r}') f\mathbf{e} \delta(\mathbf{r}' - \mathbf{r}_0)d^3 x' \\
&= \mathbf{O}(\mathbf{r} - \mathbf{r}_0) f \mathbf{e}
\end{align*}For brevity one can define ##r \equiv |\mathbf{r} - \mathbf{r}_0|## and ##\hat{\mathbf{r}} \equiv (\mathbf{r} - \mathbf{r}_0)/r##. Then, using the definition of ##\mathbf{O}(\mathbf{r})##, you have\begin{align*}
\mathbf{v}(\mathbf{r}, t) &= \frac{f}{8\pi \eta r}\left( \mathbf{1} + \hat{\mathbf{r}} \otimes \hat{\mathbf{r}} \right) \mathbf{e}
\end{align*}Recall from tensor algebra that ##\mathbf{1}\mathbf{e} = \mathbf{e}##, and also ##(\hat{\mathbf{r}} \otimes \hat{\mathbf{r}})(\mathbf{e}) \equiv (\hat{\mathbf{r}} \cdot \mathbf{e}) \hat{\mathbf{r}}##. Then you get the quoted result,\begin{align*}
\mathbf{v}(\mathbf{r}, t) &= \frac{f}{8\pi \eta r}\left( \mathbf{e} +(\hat{\mathbf{r}} \cdot \mathbf{e}) \hat{\mathbf{r}} \right)
\end{align*}
 
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Related to Integrating the Stokeslet: Solving Expression 7 from ResearchGate Publication

1. What is the Stokeslet and why is it important in fluid dynamics?

The Stokeslet is a theoretical point force used to model the motion of a small particle in a fluid. It is important in fluid dynamics because it allows for the analysis of fluid flow at a microscopic level, which can then be used to understand larger scale phenomena.

2. How is the Stokeslet integrated and solved in Expression 7?

The Stokeslet is integrated and solved in Expression 7 using a Green's function approach. This involves breaking down the fluid flow into simpler components and then using the Stokeslet to calculate the contribution of each component to the overall flow.

3. Can the Stokeslet be used to model all types of fluid flow?

No, the Stokeslet is only applicable to low Reynolds number flow, which is characterized by slow and highly viscous flow. It cannot be used to model high Reynolds number flow, which is turbulent and chaotic.

4. Are there any limitations to using the Stokeslet in fluid dynamics research?

Yes, there are some limitations to using the Stokeslet. It assumes that the fluid is infinitely viscous and that there are no external forces acting on the fluid. Additionally, it is only applicable to small particles in low Reynolds number flow.

5. How does the Stokeslet contribute to our understanding of fluid dynamics?

The Stokeslet allows for the analysis of fluid flow at a microscopic level, which can then be used to understand larger scale phenomena. It also provides a mathematical framework for solving complex fluid flow problems and can be used to make predictions about fluid behavior in various scenarios.

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