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Localized modulation of rotating waves in Taylor-Couette flow
J Abshagen1, J von Stamm, M Heise
1Institute of Experimental and Applied Physics, University of Kiel, Germany. janabshagen@bundeswehr.org
Physical Review. E, Statistical, Nonlinear, and Soft Matter Physics
|September 26, 2012
Summary
Localized states in Taylor-Couette flow emerge hysteretically, differing spatially from global states. This axial localization of rotating waves reveals a mechanism for multiple time-dependent states in fluid dynamics.
Area of Science:
- Fluid Dynamics
- Nonlinear Dynamics
- Experimental Physics
Background:
- Taylor-Couette flow is a fundamental system for studying fluid instabilities and pattern formation.
- Understanding the emergence and characteristics of different flow states is crucial for predicting complex fluid behavior.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the phenomenon of axial localization of rotating waves in Taylor-Couette flow.
- To determine the conditions under which these localized states appear and their relationship to existing flow regimes.
Main Methods:
- Experimental study of Taylor-Couette flow.
- Analysis of time-dependent flow patterns at Reynolds numbers above the onset of wavy Taylor vortices.
- Characterization of the spatial and temporal properties of localized states.
Main Results:
- Localized states, appearing hysteretically, were observed in time-dependent Taylor-Couette flow.
- These states exhibit modulated rotating wave structures, distinct from global modulated wavy Taylor vortex states.
- Axial localization correlates with a significant increase in the size of underlying Taylor vortex pairs.
Conclusions:
- Axial localization of rotating waves is identified as a key mechanism for generating multiplicity of states in Taylor-Couette flow.
- The findings contribute to a deeper understanding of pattern formation and state selection in fluid systems.
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