Visualization of natural convection in a horizontal cylindrical annulus by the liquid crystal particle suspension method

The temperature distribution and flow pattern of natural convection in a horizontal cylindrical annulus were visualized by the liquid crystal particle suspension method. Results were obtained using three kinds of silicone oil having different high Prandtl numbers. Numerical investigation was also performed with a two-dimensional finite difference scheme which have been reported in the previous paper. Comparison between the experimental and numerical results shows good agreement. (author)