Published online by Cambridge University Press: 11 April 2006
Uniformly valid asymptotic solutions for linearized disturbances valid in a finite region containing the critical point u = c are developed using the method of multiple scales for a given isoenergetic basic flow. While uniformity of approximation will certainly improve the quantitative accuracy of a typical computation of stability characteristics of the flow, a major feature of such solutions is that they afford a more accurate description of the behaviour of the linearized disturbances in the neighbourhood of the critical point u = c.