Abstract
We describe scalar interfaces in turbulent flows via elementary notions from fractal geometry. It is shown by measurement that these interfaces possess a fractal dimension of 2.35±0.05 in a variety of flows, and it is demonstrated that the uniqueness of this number is a consequence of the physical principle of Reynolds number similarity. Also, the spatial distribution of scalar and energy dissipation in physical space is shown to be multifractal. We compare the f(α) curves obtained from one- and two-dimensional cuts in several flows, and examine their value in describing features of turbulence in the three-dimensional physical space.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 43-60 |
Number of pages | 18 |
Journal | Pure and Applied Geophysics PAGEOPH |
Volume | 131 |
Issue number | 1-2 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Mar 1989 |
Keywords
- Fractals
- energy and scalar dissipation
- interfaces
- multifractals
- turbulent flows
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Geophysics
- Geochemistry and Petrology