Spontaneous wavefronts in a flat flow

In summary, the conversation discusses the phenomenon of periodic wavefronts forming when there is a thin sheet of water flowing on a street. The random texture of the asphalt surface somehow creates an organized, periodic wave. One theory is that the water spreads out so thinly that it sticks to the surface, causing a buildup of weight that creates a little pulse and reinforces the wave.
  • #1
gbell
7
0
Hi everyone,

I'm puzzled by this phenomenon - when there's a thin sheet of water flowing in the street, it forms little wavefronts which appear periodic. Obviously the water gets thin enough to interact with the rough asphalt surface, but how does the random texture manifest an organized, periodic wave?

Can someone explain this?
 

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  • #2
The lower energy state for a plane of water is to be flat rather than rippled (unlike a line of water, for which forming droplets is energetically favourable) so it seems a reasonable question why it invariably forms coherent waves in nature.
 
  • #3
Here's a theory...

The water spreads out so thinly that it stops flowing (sticks) to the surface. Like a drop of water on a mild slope that doesn't roll.

But the water is still flowing so it piles up behind the sticking point until it builds up enough weight to cascade over. This little pulse rushes forward and unsticks the next point down stream, reinforcing the wave.
 

1. What are spontaneous wavefronts in a flat flow?

Spontaneous wavefronts in a flat flow refer to the phenomenon of self-organization of fluid flows, where small disturbances in a uniform flow can result in the formation of coherent structures called wavefronts.

2. How are spontaneous wavefronts formed?

Spontaneous wavefronts are formed through the interaction of flow instabilities and nonlinear effects. The exact mechanism of wavefront formation is still a subject of ongoing research.

3. What are the applications of studying spontaneous wavefronts in a flat flow?

Studying spontaneous wavefronts in a flat flow has applications in various fields, including fluid dynamics, meteorology, and oceanography. Understanding the formation and dynamics of these wavefronts can also have practical applications in designing more efficient fluid systems.

4. Can spontaneous wavefronts be controlled or manipulated?

Yes, it is possible to control and manipulate spontaneous wavefronts through various methods such as external forcing, changing flow parameters, and using different geometries. This can be useful in applications where it is necessary to suppress or enhance the formation of wavefronts.

5. Is there ongoing research in the field of spontaneous wavefronts in a flat flow?

Yes, there is ongoing research on spontaneous wavefronts in a flat flow, particularly in understanding their formation and dynamics in different flow conditions. There are also efforts towards using this phenomenon in practical applications and developing predictive models for wavefront formation.

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