A front-tracking algorithm for accurate representation of surface tension

A front-tracking algorithm for the solution of the 2D incompressible Navier -Stokes equations with interfaces and surface forces is presented. More par ticularly, attention is focused on obtaining an accurate description of the surface tension terms and the associated pressure jump. The stationary Lap lace solution for a bubble with surface tension is considered. A careful tr eatment of the pressure gradient terms at the interface allows the reductio n of the spurious currents to machine precision. Good results are obtained for the damped oscillations of a capillary wave compared with the initial-v alue linear theory. A classical test of Rayleigh-Taylor instability is pres ented. Copyright (C) 1999 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.