Interfacial waves due to a singularity in a system of two semi-infinite fluids

The three-dimensional interfacial waves due to a fundamental singularity steadily moving in a system of two semi-infinite immiscible fluids of different densities are investigated analytically. The two fluids are assumed to be incompressible and homogenous. There are three systems to be considered: one with two inviscid fluids, one with an upper viscous and a lower inviscid fluid, and one with an upper inviscid and a lower viscous fluid. The Laplace equation is taken as the governing equation for inviscid flows while the steady Oseen equations are taken for viscous flows. The kinematic and dynamic conditions on the interface are linearized for small-amplitude waves. The singularity immersed above or beneath the interface is modeled as a simple source in the inviscid fluid while as an Oseenlet in the viscous fluid. Based on the integral solutions for the interfacial waves, the asymptotic representations of wave profiles in the far field are explicitly derived by means of Lighthill’s two-stage scheme. An analytical solution is presented for the density ratio at which the maximum wave amplitude occurs. The effects of density ratio, immersion depth, and viscosity on wave patterns are analytically expressed. It is found that the wavelength of interfacial waves is elongated in comparison with that of free-surface waves in a single fluid. © 2005 American Institute of Physics. DOI: 10.1063/1.2120447