Abstract
A large eddy simulation (LES) is used to estimate a reliable horizontal turbulent diffusion coefficient, Kh, in a convective mixed layer (CML). The introduction of a passive scalar field with a fixed horizontal gradient at a given time enables Kh estimation as a function of height, based on the simulated turbulent horizontal scalar flux. Here Kh is found to be of the order of 100 m2 s-1 for a typical terrestrial atmospheric CML. It is shown to scale by the product of the CML convective velocity, w∗, and its depth, h. Here Kh is characterized by a vertical profile in the CML: it is large near both the bottom and top of the CML, where horizontal flows associated with convection are large. The equation pertaining to the temporal rate of change of a horizontal scalar flux suggests that Kh is determined by a balance between production and pressure correlation at a fully developed stage. Pressure correlation near the bottom of the CML is localized in convergence zones near the boundaries of convective cells and becomes large within an eddy turnover time, h/w∗, after the introduction of the passive scalar field.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 553-564 |
Number of pages | 12 |
Journal | Journal of Fluid Mechanics |
Volume | 758 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 2014 Nov 10 |
Externally published | Yes |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Condensed Matter Physics
- Mechanics of Materials
- Mechanical Engineering