Stability of three-dimensional boundary layers

Abstract

The present evaluation of three-dimensional flows notes that the presence of such disturbance sources as roughness could favor the stationary mode, and that end-conditions may inhibit traveling disturbances in the experiments reported; alternatively, the theory could be inadequate. In general, uncertainties remain as to the definition of transition in three dimensions. It remains important to ascertain whether the formation of three-dimensional structures and characteristic stages will occur, as in two-dimensional flow transition. The possibilities and mechanisms for secondary instabilities also remain to be determined.