Abstract
The statistical geometry of dispersing Lagrangian clusters of four particles (tetrahedra) is studied by means of high-resolution direct numerical simulations of three-dimensional homogeneous isotropic turbulence. We give evidence of a self-similar regime of shape dynamics characterized by almost two-dimensional, strongly elongated geometries. The analysis of four-point velocity-difference statistics and orientation shows that inertial-range eddies typically generate a straining field with a strong extensional component aligned with the elongation direction and weak extensional/compressional components in the orthogonal plane.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 111701-1/4 |
Journal | Physics of Fluids |
Volume | 17 |
Issue number | 1 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 2005 |