Exact solutions for interfacial outflows with straining

In models of fluid outflows from point or line sources, an interface is present, and it is forced outwards as time progresses. Although various types of fluid instabilities are possible at the interface, it is nevertheless of interest to know the development of its overall shape with time. If the fluids on either side are of nearly equal densities, it is possible to derive a single nonlinear partial di erential equation that describes the interfacial shape with time. Although nonlinear, this equation admits a simple transformation that renders it linear, so that closed-form solutions are possible. Two such solutions are illustrated; for a line source in a planar straining flow and a point source in an axisymmetric background flow. Possible applications in astrophysics are discussed.