Stability of laser heated flows

A local stability analysis is utilized to determine the stability of disturbances generated at each point along a nozzle of variable area ratio for a one-dimensional flow heated by laser radiation entering from the upstream direction. The governing equations for the quasi-one-dimensional flow without viscous dissipation, diffusion, and thermal conduction but including radiative heat transfer are given. The governing equations are combined to yield a relationship which governs the Mach number variation through the nozzle. The complete steady-state solution can be calculated from knowledge of the Mach number profile, the inlet conditions, and the laser power. The local stability analysis permits obtaining contour (or contours) of neutral stability. Solutions have been obtained for various nozzle configurations, but only one set of example calculations is presented. The results obtained indicate that the analysis serves as an important indicator as to where potential absorption wave phenomena may be initiated.