Pattern and wave number selection in magnetic fluids.
The formation of patterns of peaks on the free surface of a magnetic fluid subject to a magnetic field normal to the undisturbed interface is investigated theoretically. The relative stability of ridge, square, and hexagon planforms is studied using a perturbative energy minimization procedure. Extending previous studies the finite depth of the fluid layer is taken into account. Moreover, adding the wave number modulus k to the set of variational parameters also the wave number selection problem is addressed. The results are compared with previous investigations and recent experimental findings.
Friedrichs
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R
FNW/ITP, Otto-von-Guericke-Universität, Postfach 4120, D-39016 Magdeburg, Germany.
Engel
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