Research and Analysis of the Small Disturbance Equation in Subsonic, Transonic, and Supersonic Regimes

Abstract

This paper explores the application of the Small Disturbance Equation (SDE) across subsonic, transonic, and supersonic flow regimes. Derived from the Euler and Navier-Stokes equations, the SDE offers an efficient framework for analyzing aerodynamic behaviors, particularly through the utilization of discretization techniques and iterative solving methods executed in Python. The study assesses the accuracy and limitations of the SDE in detailing essential flow characteristics, revealing that while the equation performs effectively in subsonic and transonic flows, it encounters challenges in supersonic regimes. Nonlinear effects such as shock waves significantly hinder its performance at high speeds. Compared with conventional computational fluid dynamics (CFD) methods, the SDE stands out in scenarios where computational efficiency is paramount. However, its limitations in handling high-speed flows must be carefully considered, highlighting the need for further refinement in its application to supersonic dynamics. This analysis suggests that while the SDE is beneficial for certain aerodynamic studies, its scope and utility are constrained by the inherent complexities of high-speed fluid dynamics.