AEROTHERMODYNAMICS OF VIBRATIONALLY NONEQUILIBRIUM GASES

The aerothermodynamics of gas systems in extreme thermal disequilibriu m of molecular energy modes is reviewed. The paper focuses on diatomic gases with vibrational mode disequilibrium, environments commonly enc ountered in supersonic expansion and shock flows, in electrical discha rges, and in laser systems. Theoretical models and experiments of ener gy transfer and of dissociation and ionization reactions in such syste ms are discussed. Recent results of primary interest to aerothermodyna micists are reviewed, and areas where the need for further research is especially critical are indicated.