Unstable Gas Flow in a Flat Channel under the Influence of a Transverse Force Field: Self-oscillations of the Jet

Abstract

A subsonic flow of an ideal gas through a flat channel is considered. In a finite channel region, a transverse force field acts, attracting the flow toward the channel axis. This field leads to flow instability, even at a relatively weak magnitude. For a weak force field, the instability is symmetrical relative to the channel axis, while for a strong force field, it becomes asymmetrical and self-oscillations occur. The characteristics of this instability have been studied numerically in this work. Possible astrophysical implications of this phenomenon are discussed.