9307914 Whitaker The investigator develops accurate methods for modeling the interface between fluids of different viscosities, based on volume fractions. The methods are developed with the goal of handling harder problems such as fluid flow around an obstacle. Also, statistical equilibrium theories of coherent structures in turbulence are explored using numerical methods. The approach used here is based on maximizing an entropy subject to the conserved quantities of the flow. This formulation is based on the Euler's equations. The investigator has also recently developed a model of DNA which will be compared to actual DNA in nature. This model will be used to answer some conjectures about DNA. The investigator develops accurate methods for solving equations describing the evolution of an interface between two different fluids. This type of interface occurs, for example, in secondary oil recovery where water is used to expel remaining oil. The stability of the interface between the water and oil is important for efficient recovery of the oil. In addition, some simplified models of fluid flow are developed and solved to investigate some fundamental properties of turbulence. The fluid could be air around an airplane wing. This research focuses on predicting coherent structures. The investigator has also recently developed a model of DNA which will be compared to data from actual DNA in nature. This model will be used to address some conjectures about DNA which are of fundamental importance. ***
