Potential Core of a Submerged Laminar Jet

This study is intended to clarify the flow pattern in the flow developing region of an axisymmetric laminar water jet issuing into the surrounding calm water. The jet, initially having a potential core region of some extent at the nozzle exit, was studied. The numerical solution of the Navier-Stokes equations in the developing region was obtained using a finite-difference approximation. The velocity profile was measured using a miniature cone-type hot probe. Flow visualization by the hydrogen bubble method was also performed. Experiments were carried out for the jet Reynolds number ranging from 100 to 600. The flow pattern in the developing region was made clear. The experimental results were compared with the numerical solution.