Nonlinear Approximation for Natural Convection Flow Near a Vertical Plate With Thermal Radiation Effect

Abstract

A nonlinear approximation for natural convection boundary layer flow near a vertical wall under the influence of thermal radiation is analyzed. The governing nonlinear partial differential equations are transformed into ordinary differential equations via the similarity transformation. The final dimensionless equations are solved numerically using the Runge Kutta Ferlberg fourth-fifth order (RKF45) method. The effects of the embedded parameters affecting the flow formation, temperature distribution, Nusselt number, and skin friction are thoroughly examined. It is found out that the temperature gradient is directly proportional to the thermal radiation parameter near the vertical plate whereas it is inversely proportional to the temperature gradient far away from the vertical plate. It is also found that the flow formation near the vertical wall could be enhanced with the increase in thermal radiation parameter. However, this increase remains unaffected in the freestream region. Furthermore, results also show that the rate of heat transfer could be enhanced with the increase in thermal radiation whereas decreases with the increase in other embedded flow parameters.