On the flow field generated by a growing sphere near a solid plane with application to nucleate boiling (Q1058950)

An exact analytical solution for the potential flow produced by a spherical cavity growing in contact with, or close to, a solid plane is described. The flow field parameters are given in a non-dimensionalised form and their characteristics are examined. The theory is applied to the case of an idealised nucleate boiling bubble. Expressions are obtained for bubble departure, pressure distribution around the bubble surface and, on the solid plane, the effect of bubble translation along the solid plane on flow parameters and the total kinetic energy imparted to the liquid. The concept of an 'area of influence' in nucleate boiling is reviewed. It is shown that neither this area nor the hydrodynamic effect inside it due to bubble motion, remain constant during bubble growth. Where possible, the results are compared with experimental data.