Additional Research on Instabilities in Atmospheric Flow Systems Associated with Clear Air Turbulence
Abstract
Additional analytical and experimental fluid mechanics studies were conducted to investigate instabilities in atmospheric flow systems associated with clear air turbulence. The experimental portion of the program was conducted using the UARL Open Water Channel which allows investigation of flows having wide ranges of shear and density stratification. The program was primarily directed toward studies of the stability of straight, stratified shear flows with particular emphasis on the effects of velocity profile on stability; on studies of three-dimensional effects on the breakdown region in shear layers; on the interaction of shear flows with long-wavelength internal waves; and on the stability of shear flows consisting of adjacent stable and unstable layers. The results of these studies were used to evaluate methods used in analyses of CAT encounters in the atmosphere involving wave-induced shear layer instabilities of the Kelvin-Helmholtz type. A computer program was developed for predicting shear-layer instability and CAT induced by mountain waves. This technique predicts specific altitudes and locations where CAT would be expected.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 1972
- Accession Number
- ADA532647
Entities
People
- Richard C. Stoeffler
Organizations
- United Aircraft Corporation