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Vortex clustering and universal scaling laws in two-dimensional quantum turbulence
Audun Skaugen1, Luiza Angheluta1
1Department of Physics, University of Oslo, P.O. 1048 Blindern, 0316 Oslo, Norway.
Physical Review. E
|April 15, 2016
Summary
We numerically studied quantum turbulence and found a universal -5/3 scaling law. This law connects energy spectrum, vortex statistics, and number fluctuations in superfluids.
Area of Science:
- Quantum physics
- Fluid dynamics
- Statistical mechanics
Background:
- Quantum turbulence exhibits complex vortex dynamics.
- Understanding vortex statistics is key to characterizing turbulent flows.
- The Gross-Pitaevskii equation models superfluids and their quantum behavior.
Purpose of the Study:
- To numerically investigate the statistical properties of quantized vortices in 2D quantum turbulence.
- To explore the relationship between vortex statistics and the turbulent energy spectrum.
- To identify universal scaling laws governing these phenomena.
Main Methods:
- Numerical simulations using the Gross-Pitaevskii equation.
- Analysis of quantized vortex statistics, including number fluctuations and velocities.
- Examination of energy spectra and probability distributions.
Main Results:
- A universal -5/3 scaling law was identified in the turbulent energy spectrum.
- Vortex number fluctuations and velocities exhibit similar -5/3 scaling behavior.
- The -5/3 scaling in vortex number fluctuations aligns with passive advection by superfluid velocity from vortex clusters.
- Clustered vortex velocity distributions show a -5/3 power-law tail.
Conclusions:
- The -5/3 scaling law is intrinsically linked to vortex statistics in 2D quantum turbulence.
- Passive advection by superfluid velocity from like-signed vortex clusters explains observed scaling.
- Vortex spatial configurations influence velocity distributions, revealing power-law behavior.
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