Velocity Dependence and Tracer Dispersion in Newtonian Fluids Undergoing Creeping Flow

Abstract

The dynamics of tracer particles in a viscous Newtonian fluid is studied analytically and numerically through channels of varying thickness for fluids undergoing creeping flow. Exact analytical solutions of mass conservation equations of tracer particles including consideration for pressure forces are obtained. Results of the analysis indicates that Stokes velocity is an indispensable parameter and is dependent on parameters such as channel thickness (height), viscosity of the fluid, pressure gradient driven the fluid and Reynolds number corresponding to the channel thickness. The accuracy of the solution obtained is verified by comparing its velocity profiles with those obtained from finite-element-based numerical simulation studies.