Abstract
Purpose The purpose of this paper is to analyze a mathematical model for the time-dependent flow of non-Newtonian Williamson liquid because of a stretching surface. The mathematical formulation of the current model is accomplished from the momentum, energy and concentration balances by assuming a laminar, two-dimensional and incompressible flow subjected to a variable magnetic field. The study further aimed at discovering the possible effects of temperature-dependent thermal conductivity on the heat transfer characteristics. Design/methodology/approach In addition, a first-order chemical reaction is considered between the fluid and chemically reacting species. The governing transport model for Williamson fluid has been altered to ordinary differential equations via appropriate dimensionless parameters. These basic non-dimensional partially coupled differential equations of fluid motion are solved by an efficient Runge-Kutta-Fehlberg integration scheme along with the Nachtsheim-Swigert shooting technique. Findings It is found that the velocity slip parameter has a reducing impact on the skin friction coefficient. Moreover, we noticed that the Hartmann number and variable thermal conductivity parameters show prominent impacts on the velocity and temperature fields. It is also perceived that the fluid temperature shows an increasing trend with uplifting values of variable thermal conductivity. Originality/value No such work is yet published in the literature.