Conservation and Transport Properties of Turbulence with Large Density Variations

摘要

In this study, a turbulence model is developed for flows containing large density gradients but moving with small Mach number. In such cases, the turbulence initiates in regions with the steepest spatial variations in mean density. This model generalizes standard turbulence models and is comprised of transport equations for second-order correlations constructed from fluctuating components of density, velocity, and internal energy. From these, instability-driven source terms for turbulence arise naturally. We also exhibit the effect of nonhomogeneities in the flow on the level of turbulence. Many applications of this model can be envisioned, including meteorology, the study of stratified flow, and investigation of volcanic plumes formed during eruptions. 21 refs., 3 figs. (ERA citation 12:014611)