On the nature of singularities inherent, under a given analytic distribution of the external pressure, in solutions of the Prandtl equations near the point of separation (Q1338252)

A comprehensive analysis of a classical two-dimensional boundary layer is developed with the aim of revealing possible types of singularities related to separation. According to the basic assumption, the limit flow regime with a singular point of vanishing skin friction obeys an analytic solution where the frictional intensity approaches zero according to quadratic law rather than varying linearly with distance. Small deviations from the limit regime are described in terms of eigenfunctions, three of which involve singularities. A qualitative comparison between theoretical predictions and experimental data for a circular cylinder in an incompressible stream is made with the emphasis on conceivable explanations for the nonmonotonic behavior of frictional intensities in the transitional range of Reynolds numbers.