A note on the steady high-Reynolds-number flow about a circular cylinder

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Abstract
The most detailed theoretical description of the steady flow at high Reynolds number about a circular cylinder is given by Smith (1979). It appears to give a satisfactory description of much of the flow field. Numerical solutions for this flow computed by Fornberg (1985) are in conflict with some aspects of Smith's model.An acknowledged weak point in Smith's argument is the lack of a detailed flow for the interior of the eddies, particularly with respect to their rear closure. This paper discusses this aspect of the flow with particular emphasis on the vorticity distribution and with the aid of a solution of the Navier–Stokes equations which is valid at the rear of the eddies. As a result an interpretation of Fornberg's results is possible. The self-induced velocity of translation of the vorticity distribution is considered and discussed with reference to the flow as Re → ∞.