Semi-similar solutions to the three-dimensional laminar boundary layer

The theory of semi-similar solutions is developed for and applied to the problem of three-dimensional laminar boundary layer flow. A number of specific examples are calculated. Particular attention is given to certain flows in which separation is approached and the nature of three-dimensional laminar boundary layer separation is inferred from the behavior of these solutions close to separation. Two types of separation are observed: singular separation characterized by the vanishing of the total shear along the line of separation and ordinary separation characterized by limiting streamlines which become parallel to the line of separation.