It is increasingly the case that models of natural phenomena and materials processing systems involve viscous flows with free surfaces. These free boundaries are interfaces of the fluid with either second immiscible fluids or else deformable solid boundaries. The deformation can be due to mechanical displacement or as is the case here, due to phase transformation; the solid can melt or freeze. This volume highlights a broad range of subjects on interfacial phenomena. There is an overview of the mathematical description of viscous free-surface flows, a description of the current understanding of mathematical issues that arise in these models and a discussion of high-order-accuracy boundary-integral methods for the solution of viscous free surface flows. There is the mathematical analysis of particular flows: long-wave instabilities in viscous-film flows, analysis of long-wave instabilities leading to Marangoni convection, and de scriptions of the interaction of convection with morphological stability during directional solidification. This book is geared toward anyone with an interest in free-boundary problems, from mathematical analysts to material scientists; it will be useful to applied mathematicians, physicists, and engineers alike."

The processes of freezing and melting were present at the beginnings of the Earth and continue to dominate the natural and industrial worlds. The solidification of a liquid or the melting of a solid involves a complex interplay of many physical effects. This book systematically presents the field of continuum solidification theory based on instability phenomena. An understanding of the physics is developed by using examples of increasing complexity with the object of creating a deep physical insight applicable to more complex problems. Applied mathematicians, engineers, physicists, and materials scientists will all find this volume of interest.

Over the years, bridging the gap between research and practice in education has proven to be a stubborn and persistent problem. This book examines the issue from several perspectives. First, the characteristics of educational research are examined with particular attention given to the contrasting perspectives and professional orientations of researchers and practitioners. Second, the book provides a critical analysis of the current focus on 'scientifically-based' research as defined by No Child Left Behind and of the dubious relevance and uneven quality of research produced by schools of education. Third, several suggestions and resources are provided that can help practitioners improve their 'research literacy' and for researchers interested in advancing the practical relevance of their work.

Over the years, bridging the gap between research and practice in education has proven to be a stubborn and persistent problem. This book examines the issue from several perspectives. First, the characteristics of educational research are examined with particular attention given to the contrasting perspectives and professional orientations of researchers and practitioners. Second, the book provides a critical analysis of the current focus on 'scientifically-based' research as defined by No Child Left Behind and of the dubious relevance and uneven quality of research produced by schools of education. Third, several suggestions and resources are provided that can help practitioners improve their 'research literacy' and for researchers interested in advancing the practical relevance of their work.