This paper presents a finite element numerical solution of free convection in a cavity with side walls maintained at constant but different temperatures. The predictions from the model and the method of solution were validated by comparison with the ＇bench mark＇ solution and Vahl Davis＇ results and good agreement was found. The present model was used to obtain additional results over a wide range of Rayleigh number (10(3)-10(6)) and L/H ratios varying from 0.1 to 1.0. The predicted stream function patterns, temperature and velocity profiles as well as the mean Nusselt number were presented and discussed. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.