Instability of three dimensional boundary layer

Design of modern laminar-flow-control aircraft depends on the prediction of the growth of the disturbances in the boundary layer. However, despite large research effort the origins of turbulent flow and the transition process remain one of the most important unsolved problems of aerodynamics. This gives a survey of the experimental and theoretical research on the stability and transition of three dimensional boundary layer. Four types of instability which can occur and lead to transition are analyzed: leading edge contamination, crossflow instability, streamwise instability and centrifugal instability. The e^N method of transition point prediction is discussed.