On the optimal systems of subalgebras for the equations of hydrodynamic stability analysis of smooth shear flows and their group-invariant solutions

We present a unifying solution framework for the linearized compressible equations for two-dimensional linearly sheared unbounded flows using the Lie symmetry analysis. The full set of symmetries that are admitted by the underlying system of equations is employed to systematically derive the one- and two-dimensional optimal systems of subalgebras, whose connected group reductions lead to three distinct invariant ansatz functions for the governing sets of partial differential equations (PDEs). The purpose of this analysis is threefold and explicitly we show that (i) there are three invariant solutions that stem from the optimal system. These include a general ansatz function with two free parameters, as well as the ansatz functions of the Kelvin mode and the modal approach. Specifically, the first approach unifies these well-known ansatz functions. By considering two limiting cases of the free parameters and related algebraic transformations, the general ansatz function is reduced to either of them. This fact also proves the existence of a link between the Kelvin mode and modal ansatz functions, as these appear to be the limiting cases of the general one. (ii) The Lie algebra associated with the Lie group admitted by the PDEs governing the compressible dynamics is a subalgebra associated with the group admitted by the equations governing the incompressible dynamics, which allows an additional (scaling) symmetry. Hence, any consequences drawn from the compressible case equally hold for the incompressible counterpart. (iii) In any of the systems of ordinary differential equations, derived by the three ansatz functions in the compressible case, the linearized potential vorticity is a conserved quantity that allows us to analyze vortex and wave mode perturbations separately.