Abstract
We study the stability of a parallel array of Saffman-Taylor fingers in the limit of infinite viscosity contrast. We discover a modulatory instability which prevents the system from remaining in steady-state motion. We discuss how this instability signals the beginning of the coalescence of the finger array to the final single-finger steady-state configuration. Finally, we speculate on the importance of this global instability for the understanding of patterns in diffusion-limited growth.
| Original language | American English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 3625-3627 |
| Journal | Physical Review A (Atomic, Molecular and Optical Physics) |
| Volume | 33 |
| Issue number | 5 |
| State | Published - 1986 |