Explicit Finite Difference Modeling of Unsteady Boundary-layer Flow over
an Upright Plate Due to Generating Heat
Abstract
This research explores the effects of thermal and solute buoyancy forces
on the unsteady boundary-layer (BL) stream through an upright porous
flat plate with heat generation. The investigated fluid is viscid,
impermeable, and electrically conductive. Thermo and solute buoyancy
forces cause the mechanisms of thermal and material transfer. The
nonlinear time-dependent partial differential equations (PDEs) about
continuity, momentum, energy, and concentration are examined through
suitable modifications. After mathematical modeling, an explicit finite
difference method (EFDM) is used to solve a group of nonlinear
dimensionless PDEs and appropriate boundary conditions. The detailing of
the EFDM procedure due to the considered model is well-stated step by
step. The validity of EFDM coding is conducted by reproducing similar
previously available results. The mathematical formulation, stability,
and convergence explored are also recognized. Searching for an
appropriate uniform meshing and steady state condition is performed
carefully. The existence of the pertinent parameters in this finite
difference modeling is also checked. The thermo-physical consequences of
inflowing physical values (buoyancy force and heat generation) on the
velocity, temperature, and concentration distribution are scrutinized.
The deviations in local and average skin friction coefficients, heat,
and material transfer rates are also examined for physical curiosity in
engineering research. The above-illustrated model equations are
numerically simulated using LAHEY FORTRAN 95 v6.2. For graphical
representation, Tecplot 365, and for data analysis, Microsoft Excel 2023
are used. The significant finding of this research reveals that the
fluid velocity upsurges as the buoyancy intensifies, and the rising
temperature generation enhances the thermal-material transport rates.
The observed behavior is attributed to the thermal buoyancy force, which
produces a pressure gradient. To compare the current modeling result, we
correlate these findings to those of other research available in the
literature.