Experimental observation of dynamic mode switching in interfacial-tension-driven convection near a codimension-two point

The container geometry's effect on flow patterns that form near the onset of interfacial-driven convection were studied. Numerical studies indicate that the flow patterns at the onset of convection should be steady, while experiments showed a dynamic switching between two different flow patterns, or modes. This phenomenon is a function of the container's radius over height (aspect ratio), and it is believed to result from the coexistence of energy states. Unsteady convection has significant implications in liquid encapsulated crystal growth where the aspect ratios are ever changing due to the solidification process.