Toward a theoretical description of vortex wake asymmetry

Previous studies have suggested that the asymmetric vortex wake which develops behind an axisymmetric body at angle of attack is the result of the amplification of a disturbance introduced at the tip of the body. The potential-flow vortex wake of a circular cylinder in cross-flow is examined and similarities to the wake of the axisymmetric body at incidence are described. The implications of these similarities for the suggested model are discussed, and an argument is made that the vortex trajectories are fixed at a given angle of attack and shifted upstream or downstream by the initial disturbance. The need for further detailed experimental studies of the asymmetric vortex wake development is noted.