Least-Dissipation Interfaces in Fully Miscible Fluids

Abstract

Sharp interfaces in miscible fluids have long been observed, yet classical theory associates them only with phase coexistence and non-convex free energies. We present a minimal variational frame work where adding a Fermi-Dirac (FD) free energy to a convex bulk contribution preserves miscibility, while the convex term drops out in the gradient balance, leaving the FD part to set a logistic profile by the principle of least dissipation. After formation, the FD interface propagates diffusively and later broadens by ripening, giving a unified view of interfacial dynamics in miscible fluids.