Evaluation of Two Statistical Models Using the Shock Structure Problem

The accuracy of two statistical models for the collision integral of the Boltzmann equation has been evaluated by applying the models to the solution of the problem of shock structure in a monatomic gas and then comparing the theoretical results with available experimental data. The two models considered here are the Bhatnagar‐Gross‐Krook and ellipsoidal statistical models. The Mach number range covered is 1.59‐10.7 and profiles for density and, where available, temperature are compared. The method of numerical solution is the discrete ordinate technique which looks quite promising for application to more complicated models. The results indicate that the ellipsoidal statistical model, which gives a correct value for the Prandtl number, gives accurate results for a low Mach number shock. However, the accuracy degenerates as the Mach number increases. The Bhatnagar‐Gross‐Krook model gives poorer agreement with experimental data in all cases examined.