S.C. Gupta - Böcker

This volume emphasises studies related to classical Stefan problems. The term "Stefan problem" is generally used for heat transfer problems with phase-changes such as from the liquid to the solid. Stefan problems have some characteristics that are typical of them, but certain problems arising in fields such as mathematical physics and engineering also exhibit characteristics similar to them. The term ``classical" distinguishes the formulation of these problems from their weak formulation, in which the solution need not possess classical derivatives. Under suitable assumptions, a weak solution could be as good as a classical solution. In hyperbolic Stefan problems, the characteristic features of Stefan problems are present but unlike in Stefan problems, discontinuous solutions are allowed because of the hyperbolic nature of the heat equation. The numerical solutions of inverse Stefan problems, and the analysis of direct Stefan problems are so integrated that it is difficult to discuss one without referring to the other. So no strict line of demarcation can be identified between a classical Stefan problem and other similar problems. On the other hand, including every related problem in the domain of classical Stefan problem would require several volumes for their description. A suitable compromise has to be made. The basic concepts, modelling, and analysis of the classical Stefan problems have been extensively investigated and there seems to be a need to report the results at one place. This book attempts to answer that need.

The Classical Stefan Problem: Basic Concepts, Modelling and Analysis with Quasi-Analytical Solutions and Methods, New Edition, provides fundamental theory, concepts, modelling and analysis of the physical, mathematical, thermodynamical and metallurgical properties of classical Stefan and Stefan-like problems as applied to heat transfer problems involving phase-changes, such as from liquid to solid.

This self-contained work reports and derives the results from tensor analysis, differential geometry, non-equilibrium thermodynamics, physics and functional analysis, and is thoroughly enriched with many appropriate references for an in-depth background reading on theorems. This new edition includes more than 400 pages of new material on quasi-analytical solutions and methods of classical Stefan and Stefan-like problems. The book aims to bridge the gap between the theoretical and solution aspects of the afore-mentioned problems.