Fundamental Theoretical and Numerical Issues of Characterization of Phase Turbulence in Geophysical Flows
Abstract
This project focuses on turbulence in stratified fluids, with applications to laser-beam propagation in the stratosphere and upper troposphere. Such middle atmospheric layers are characterized by the presence of high shear (e.g. jet stream and thermal winds) and stable density stratification (due to the thermal structure of the atmosphere). Asymptotic regimes of atmospheric flow dynamics are described for different Burger number limits. Rotating 3D Euler-Boussinesq equations are analyzed in the asymptotic limit of strong stratification in the Burger number of order one situation as well as in the asymptotic regime of strong stratification and weak rotation. Substantial progress has been achieved in unraveling the physics and mathematics of strong nonlinear interactions involving three-wave resonance between inertio-gravity waves and vortical (potential vorticity) modes. Applications to optical (scintillation) turbulence of relevance to the Air Force Air Borne Laser (ABL) Program are investigated.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Oct 31, 1999
- Accession Number
- ADA380883
Entities
People
- Alex Mahalov
- Basil Nicolaenko
Organizations
- Arizona State University