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Updated: Feb 2, 2026
08:41
Ultrasound Velocity Measurement in a Liquid Metal Electrode
Published on: August 5, 2015
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Jump rope vortex in liquid metal convection
Tobias Vogt1,2, Susanne Horn1, Alexander M Grannan3
1Department of Earth, Planetary, and Space Sciences, University of California, Los Angeles, CA 90095; susannehorn@ucla.edu t.vogt@hzdr.de.
Summary
Large-scale circulations (LSCs) in turbulent convection exhibit a novel "jump rope vortex" mode. This 3D vortex orbits the tank, challenging previous quasi-planar models and impacting studies of stars and planets.
Area of Science:
- Fluid dynamics
- Geophysics
- Astrophysics
Background:
- Large-scale circulations (LSCs) are crucial in turbulent convection for astrophysical and planetary studies.
- Existing models often describe LSCs as quasi-planar with sloshing and torsional modes.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the actual form of LSCs in turbulent convective systems.
- To challenge the canonical quasi-planar model of LSCs.
Main Methods:
- Coupled laboratory and numerical experiments were conducted.
- Liquid gallium was used as the working fluid in tanks with aspect ratios greater than unity.
Main Results:
- A strongly 3D mode, termed the "jump rope vortex," was observed.
- This vortex periodically orbits the tank, unlike previously described modes.
- The jump rope flow was also detected in more viscous fluids like water, though with a weaker signal.
Conclusions:
- The "jump rope vortex" is an essential component of turbulent convection.
- This finding necessitates a revision of current models for LSCs in natural systems like stars and planets.
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