Entropy and the second law fluid flow and heat transfer simulation

A review of the diverse roles of entropy and the second law in computational thermo-fluid dynamics is presented. Entropy computations are related to numerical error, convergence criteria, time-step limitations, and other significant aspects of computational fluid flow and heat transfer. The importance of the second law as a tool for estimating error bounds and the overall scheme's robustness is described. As computational methods become more reliable and accurate, emerging applications involving the second law in the design of engineering thermal fluid systems are described. Sample numerical results are presented and discussed for a multitude of applications in compressible flows, as well as problems with phase change heat transfer. Advantages and disadvantages of different entropy-based methods are discussed, as well as areas of importance suggested for future research.