Abstract:

This thesis presents a comprehensive study on the linear stability analysis of boundary layer
flow. The primary focus is on the investigation of the stability characteristics of two-
dimensional steady flow over a moving surface. The thesis comprises four chapters, each
addressing specific aspects of hydrodynamic stability and stability analysis of different flow
configurations. The goal is to understand the stability behavior of boundary layer flows and
determine critical values associated with their stability.

The first chapter serves as an introduction to hydrodynamic stability. It provides a

comprehensive overview of the fundamental principles and theories related to stability
analysis. The importance of stability analysis in predicting flow behavior accurately is
highlighted, and various methodologies and criteria employed in linear stability analysis are
discussed.

The second chapter focuses on the stability analysis of stagnation point flow due to a
stretching surface. Stagnation point flows are essential benchmark cases for boundary layer
flows, and the influence of a stretching surface on their stability is of particular interest. The
existing literature on this topic is thoroughly reviewed, and the critical values associated with
the stability of the flow are identified and analyzed.

In the third chapter, the stability analysis of Blasius flow is conducted. Blasius flow
represents a simplified form of boundary layer flow and serves as another significant case
study in stability analysis. The critical values of the Reynolds number associated with the
stability of Blasius flow are determined, providing valuable insights into its stability behavior.

The fourth and final chapter of the thesis presents the original work conducted by the author
on the topic of linear instability of two-dimensional steady flow over a moving surface. This
chapter describes the methodology employed in the stability analysis and presents the results
obtained. The critical values associated with the stability of the flow are determined, and the
stability characteristics are thoroughly analyzed.

In conclusion, this thesis provides a comprehensive exploration of the linear stability analysis
of boundary layer flow. It covers various aspects, including the introduction to hydrodynamic
stability, the stability analysis of stagnation point flow due to a stretching surface, the stability
analysis of Blasius flow, and the author's original work on the linear instability of two-
dimensional steady flow over a moving surface. The findings of this study contribute to the
existing body of knowledge in the field and offer valuable insights for engineering and
scientific applications.

Preface:

The study of fluid flow behavior and its stability characteristics plays a crucial role in
understanding and predicting various phenomena encountered in engineering and scientific
disciplines. This thesis focuses on the linear stability analysis of boundary layer flow, with a
particular emphasis on the investigation of two-dimensional steady flow over a moving
surface. The primary objective is to analyse the stability behavior of this flow configuration
and determine critical values associated with its stability.

The journey towards completing this thesis has been both challenging and rewarding. It
involved extensive literature research, theoretical analyses, and computational simulations to
explore the stability characteristics of boundary layer flows. The thesis is structured into four
chapters, each addressing specific aspects of the linear stability analysis of boundary layer
flow.

The first chapter introduces the concept of hydrodynamic stability. It lays the foundation by
discussing the fundamental principles and theories related to stability analysis. The chapter
presents an overview of stability criteria and methodologies employed in linear stability
analysis, highlighting their significance in predicting and understanding flow behavior
accurately.
The second chapter focuses on the stability analysis of stagnation point flow due to a
stretching surface. Stagnation point flows are essential benchmark cases for boundary layer
flows, and the influence of a stretching surface on their stability is of particular interest. This
chapter reviews the existing literature on this topic and explores the critical values associated
with the stability of the flow. The findings from this literature review provide valuable
insights into the stability behavior of stagnation point flow over a stretching surface.

In the third chapter, the stability analysis of Blasius flow is conducted. Blasius flow
represents a simplified form of boundary layer flow and serves as an important case study in
stability analysis. The critical values of the Reynolds number associated with the stability of
Blasius flow are determined and analyzed. This chapter contributes to a comprehensive
understanding of the stability behavior of Blasius flow, aiding in the prediction of its flow
characteristics.

The fourth and final chapter of the thesis presents the original work conducted by the author
on the topic of linear instability of two-dimensional steady flow over a moving surface. This
chapter describes the methodology employed in the stability analysis and presents the results
obtained. The critical values associated with the stability of the flow are determined, and the
stability characteristics are thoroughly analyzed. This original research work provides novel
insights into the stability behavior of two-dimensional steady flow over a moving surface.

Completing this thesis would not have been possible without the guidance and support of my
supervisor and the valuable contributions from numerous research papers and scholarly
resources. I would like to express my gratitude to my supervisor for their constant
encouragement, guidance, and insightful discussions throughout the research process.

I would also like to thank my family and friends for their unwavering support and
understanding during this thesis. Their encouragement and belief in my abilities have been
instrumental in my academic journey.

It is my sincere hope that this thesis contributes to the existing body of knowledge in the field
of linear stability analysis of boundary layer flow and serves as a valuable resource for
researchers and practitioners alike. May the findings presented herein open new avenues for
exploration and inspire further advancements in the field.