The properties of a relatively uncommon regime of fluid dynamics, low
Mach number compressible flow are investigated. This regime, which is
characterized by an exceptionally large channel aspect ratio L/d simil
ar to 10(6) leads to highly subsonic flows in which friction dominates
inertia. Even so, because of the large aspect ratio, finite pressure,
temperature, and density gradients are required, implying that compre
ssibility effects are also important. Analytical results are presented
which show, somewhat unexpectedly, that for forced channel flow, stea
dy-state solutions exist only below a critical value of heat input. Ab
ove this value the flow reverses against the direction of the applied
pressure gradient causing fluid to leave both the inlet and outlet imp
lying that the related concepts of a steady-state friction factor and
heat transfer coefficient have no validity.