ABSTRACT
We analyze the most elementary of all boundary-layer flows, in which the fluid is incompressible, has constant properties, and has a constant freestream speed u ∞. It flows over a semi-infinite planar wall of zero thickness that is aligned with the freestream velocity. Consequently, the flow is two-dimensional, as shown in Figure 24.1. The leading edge of the plate is at the origin of the coordinate system and is infinitely sharp, and only the flow over the upper surface needs to be considered. In the region away from the wall, the flow is essentially inviscid. However, because of the no-slip wall boundary condition, there is a viscous layer adjacent to the wall, which is the subject of our discussion.
