Kinetic Theory Analysis of Linearized Rayleigh Problem

The problem of an infinite flat plate set impulsively into uniform motion in its own plane in an infinite mass of fluid is discussed using the B-G-K model of the Boltzmann equation. The velocity of the plate is assumed to be small and the equations as well as the boundary conditions are linearized. The velocity field and the stress on the plate are obtained for both sbort and long times. For sbort times the solution represents a perturbation to the linearized free molecular flow. It involves also at long times essential difference from the classical slip flow near the boundary.