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Article Dans Une Revue Hydrology and Earth System Sciences Discussions Année : 2006

Constructal theory of pattern formation

Résumé

This review article shows that the occurrence of macroscopic flow configuration is a universal natural phenomenon that can be explained and predicted on the basis of a principle of physics (the constructal law): "For a flow system to persist in time (to survive) it must evolve in such a way that it provides easier and easier access to the currents that flow through it". The examples given in this article come from natural inanimate flow systems with configuration: duct cross-sections, open channel cross-sections, tree-shaped flow architectures, and turbulent flow structure (e.g., eddies, laminar lengths before transition). Other examples that are treated in the literature, and which support the constructal law, are wedge-shape of turbulent shear layers, jets and plumes, the frequency of vortex shedding, Bénard convection in fluids and fluid-saturated porous media, dendritic solidification, the coalescence of solid parcels suspended in a flow, global atmospheric and oceanic circulation and climate, and virtually all architectural features of animal design. The constructal law stresses the importance of reserving a place for pure theory in research, and for constantly searching for new physics ? new summarizing principles that are general, hence useful.
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Dates et versions

hal-00298738 , version 1 (18-06-2008)

Identifiants

  • HAL Id : hal-00298738 , version 1

Citer

A. Bejan. Constructal theory of pattern formation. Hydrology and Earth System Sciences Discussions, 2006, 3 (4), pp.1773-1807. ⟨hal-00298738⟩

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