Assessment of RANS and LES Turbulence Modeling for Buoyancy-Aided/Opposed Forced and Mixed Convection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Clifford, Corey; Kimber, Mark

2017-11-01

Over the last 30 years, an industry-wide shift within the nuclear community has led to increased utilization of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) to supplement nuclear reactor safety analyses. One such area that is of particular interest to the nuclear community, specifically to those performing loss-of-flow accident (LOFA) analyses for next-generation very-high temperature reactors (VHTR), is the capacity of current computational models to predict heat transfer across a wide range of buoyancy conditions. In the present investigation, a critical evaluation of Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes (RANS) and large-eddy simulation (LES) turbulence modeling techniques is conducted based on CFD validation data collected from the Rotatable Buoyancy Tunnel (RoBuT) at Utah State University. Four different experimental flow conditions are investigated: (1) buoyancy-aided forced convection; (2) buoyancy-opposed forced convection; (3) buoyancy-aided mixed convection; (4) buoyancy-opposed mixed convection. Overall, good agreement is found for both forced convection-dominated scenarios, but an overly-diffusive prediction of the normal Reynolds stress is observed for the RANS-based turbulence models. Low-Reynolds number RANS models perform adequately for mixed convection, while higher-order RANS approaches underestimate the influence of buoyancy on the production of turbulence.

The Buoyancy Budget With a Nonlinear Equation of State

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hieronymus, M. H.; Nycander, J.

2012-12-01

There has been a number of studies focusing on different aspects of having a nonlinear equation of state for seawater. Amongst other things it has been shown that the nonlinear equation of state has implications for the oceanic energy budget and that nonlinear processes can be a significant source of dense water production. This presentation will focus on the oceanic buoyancy budget. The nonlinear equation of state of seawater can introduce a sink or source of buoyancy when water parcels of unequal salinities and temperatures are mixed. A common example is the process known as cabbeling, which is responsible for forming a water mass that is denser than the original constituents in a mixture of two water masses with equal densities but different salinities and temperatures. This presentation will contain quantitative estimates of these nonlinear effects on the buoyancy budget of the global ocean. Because of these nonlinear effects there is a net sink of buoyancy in the oceans interior and the size of this sink can be determined from the buoyancy fluxes at the ocean boundaries. These boundary buoyancy fluxes are calculated using two surface heat flux climatologies one based on in situ measurements, the other on a reanalysis and in both cases using a nonlinear equation of state. The presentation also treats the buoyancy budget in the State of the art ocean model Nucleus for European Modelling of the Ocean (NEMO) and the results from NEMO are seen to be in good agreement with the buoyancy budgets based on the heat flux climatologies. Using the ocean model is a good complement to the surface flux climatologies, because in NEMO the buoyancy fluxes can be evaluated at all vertical model levels. This means that the vertical distribution of the buoyancy sink can be looked into. The results from NEMO shows that in large parts of the ocean the nonlinear buoyancy sink is the largest contribution to the buoyancy budget.

A Unified Theory for the Great Plains Nocturnal Low-Level Jet

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shapiro, A.; Fedorovich, E.; Rahimi, S.

2014-12-01

The nocturnal low-level jet (LLJ) is a warm-season atmospheric boundary layer phenomenon common to the Great Plains of the United States and other places worldwide, typically in regions east of mountain ranges. Low-level jets develop around sunset in fair weather conditions conducive to strong radiational cooling, reach peak intensity in the pre-dawn hours, and then dissipate with the onset of daytime convective mixing. In this study we consider the LLJ as a diurnal oscillation of a stably stratified atmosphere overlying a planar slope on the rotating Earth. The oscillations arise from diurnal cycles in both the heating of the slope (mechanism proposed by Holton in 1967) and the turbulent mixing (mechanism proposed by Blackadar in 1957). The governing equations are the equations of motion, incompressibility condition, and thermal energy in the Boussinesq approximation, with turbulent heat and momentum exchange parameterized through spatially constant but diurnally varying turbulent diffusion coefficients (diffusivities). Analytical solutions are obtained for diffusivities with piecewise constant waveforms (step-changes at sunrise and sunset) and slope temperatures/buoyancies with piecewise linear waveforms (saw-tooth function with minimum at sunrise and maximum before sunset). The jet characteristics are governed by eleven parameters: slope angle, Coriolis parameter, environmental buoyancy frequency, geostrophic wind strength, daytime and nighttime diffusivities, maximum (daytime) and minimum (nighttime) slope buoyancies, duration of daylight, lag time between peak slope buoyancy and sunset, and a Newtonian cooling time scale. An exploration of the parameter space yields results that are broadly consistent with findings particular to the Holton and Blackadar theories, and agree with climatological observations, for example, that stronger jets tend to occur over slopes of 0.15-0.25 degrees characteristic of the Great Plains. The solutions also yield intriguing predictions that peak jet strength increases with attenuation of the minimum surface buoyancy, and that the single most important parameter determining jet height is the nighttime diffusivity, with weaker nightime diffusion associated with smaller jet heights. These and other highlights will be discussed in the presentation.

Solutal and thermal buoyancy effects in self-powered phosphatase micropumps.

PubMed

Valdez, Lyanne; Shum, Henry; Ortiz-Rivera, Isamar; Balazs, Anna C; Sen, Ayusman

2017-04-12

Immobilized enzymes generate net fluid flow when exposed to specific reagents in solution. Thus, they function as self-powered platforms that combine sensing and on-demand fluid pumping. To uncover the mechanism of pumping, we examine the effects of solutal and thermal buoyancy on the behavior of phosphatase-based micropumps, using a series of reactants with known thermodynamic and kinetic parameters. By combining modeling and experiments, we perform the first quantitative comparison of thermal and solutal effects in an enzyme micropump system. Despite the significant exothermicity of the catalyzed reactions, we find that thermal effects play a minimal role in the observed fluid flow. Instead, fluid transport in phosphatase micropumps is governed by the density difference between the reactants and the products of the reaction. This surprising conclusion suggests new design principles for catalytic pumps.

14 CFR 29.755 - Hull buoyancy.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-01-01

... 14 Aeronautics and Space 1 2010-01-01 2010-01-01 false Hull buoyancy. 29.755 Section 29.755... STANDARDS: TRANSPORT CATEGORY ROTORCRAFT Design and Construction Floats and Hulls § 29.755 Hull buoyancy. Water-based and amphibian rotorcraft. The hull and auxiliary floats, if used, must have enough...

Analysis of buoyancy effect on fully developed laminar heat transfer in a rotating tube

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Siegel, R.

1985-01-01

Laminar heat transfer is analyzed in a tube rotating about an axis perpendicular to the tube axis. The solution applies for flow that is either radially outward from the axis of rotation, or radially inward toward the axis of rotation. The conditions are fully developed, and there is uniform heat addition at the tube wall. The analysis is performed by expanding velocities and temperature in power series using the Taylor number as a perturbation parameter. Coriolis and buoyancy forces caused by tube rotation are included, and the solution is calculated through second-order terms. The secondary flow induced by the Coriolis terms always tends to increase the heat transfer coefficient; this effect can dominate for small wall heating. For radial inflow, buoyancy also tends to improve heat transfer. For radial outflow, however, buoyancy tends to reduce heat transfer; for large wall heating this effect can dominate, and there is a net reduction in heat transfer coefficient.

Mixed convection-radiation interaction in boundary-layer flow over horizontal surfaces

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ibrahim, F. S.; Hady, F. M.

1990-06-01

The effect of buoyancy forces and thermal radiation on the steady laminar plane flow over an isothermal horizontal flat plate is investigated within the framework of first-order boundary-layer theory, taking into account the hydrostatic pressure variation normal to the plate. The fluid considered is a gray, absorbing-emitting but nonscattering medium, and the Rosseland approximation is used to describe the radiative heat flux in the energy equation. Both a hot surface facing upward and a cold surface facing downward are considered in the analysis. Numerical results for the local Nusselt number, the local wall shear stress, the local surface heat flux, as well as the velocity and temperature distributions are presented for gases with a Prandtl number of 0.7 for various values of the radiation-conduction parameter, the buoyancy parameter, and the temperature ratio parameter.

The Effect of Internal Gravity Waves on Fluctuations in Meteorological Parameters of the Atmospheric Boundary Layer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zaitseva, D. V.; Kallistratova, M. A.; Lyulyukin, V. S.; Kouznetsov, R. D.; Kuznetsov, D. D.

2018-03-01

Variations in the intensity of turbulence during wave activity in the stable atmospheric boundary layer over a homogeneous steppe surface have been analyzed. Eight wave activity episodes recorded with a Doppler sodar in August 2015 at the Tsimlyansk Scientific Station of the Obukhov Institute of Atmospheric Physics have been studied. These episodes include seven trains of Kelvin-Helmholtz waves and one train of buoyancy waves. Variations in the rms deviation of the vertical wind-velocity component, the temperature structure parameter, and vertical heat and momentum fluxes have been estimated for each episode of wave activity. It has been found that Kelvin-Helmholtz waves slightly affect the intensity of turbulence, while buoyancy waves cause the temperature structure parameter and the vertical fluxes to increase by more than an order of magnitude.

The effects of buoyancy on turbulent nonpremixed jet flames in crossflow

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Boxx, Isaac G.

An experimental research study was conducted to investigate what effect buoyancy had on the mean and instantaneous flow-field characteristics of turbulent jet-flames in crossflow (JFICF). The study used an experimental technique wherein a series of normal-gravity, hydrogen-diluted propane JFICF were compared with otherwise identical ones in low-gravity. Experiments were conducted at the University of Texas Drop Tower Facility, a new microgravity science laboratory built for this study at the University of Texas at Austin. Two different diagnostic techniques were employed, high frame-rate digital cinematographic imaging and planar laser Mie scattering (PLMS). The flame-luminosity imaging revealed significant elongation and distortion of the large-scale luminous structure of the JFICF. This was seen to affect the flametip oscillation and burnout characteristics. Mean and root-mean-square (RMS) images of flame-luminosity were computed from the flame-luminosity image sequences. These were used to compare visible flame-shapes, flame chord-lengths and jet centerline-trajectories of the normal- and low-gravity flames. In all cases the jet-centerline penetration and mean luminous flame-width were seen to increase with decreasing buoyancy. The jet-centerline trajectories for the normal-gravity flames were seen to behave differently to those of the low-gravity flames. This difference led to the conclusion that the jet transitions from a momentum-dominated forced convection limit to a buoyancy-influenced regime when it reaches xiC ≈ 3, where xiC is the Becker and Yamazaki (1978) buoyancy parameter based on local flame chord-length. The mean luminous flame-lengths showed little sensitivity to buoyancy or momentum flux ratio. Consistent with the flame-luminosity imaging experiments, comparison of the instantaneous PLMS flow-visualization images revealed substantial buoyancy-induced elongation and distortion of the large-scale shear-layer vortices in the flow. This effect became apparent in the JFICF at around xiy = 3.1 and grew in influence to become a dominant flow-field characteristic approximately xi y = 4.3. The PLMS images also yielded physical-insight into the nature of the fore-aft asymmetry of JFICF characteristics noted by previous researchers. Ensemble-averages of PLMS images were used to investigate centerline mixture fraction decay. Consistent with previous studies of non-reacting JICF studies, the mixture-fraction of the JFICF showed a power-law decay profile which scaled with (rd)-0.66. Over the region these measurements were made (xiy = 0--1.9), the mixture fraction decay scaling showed little sensitivity to buoyancy. Taken as a whole, these measurements show that buoyancy has the potential to significantly modify both the mean and instantaneous flow-field of a turbulent JFICF, even at relatively modest length-scales.

A novel method for calculating and measuring the second-order buoyancy experienced by a magnet immersed in magnetic fluid

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Yu, Jun; Hao, Du; Li, Decai

2018-01-01

The phenomenon whereby an object whose density is greater than magnetic fluid can be suspended stably in magnetic fluid under the magnetic field is one of the peculiar properties of magnetic fluids. Examples of applications based on the peculiar properties of magnetic fluid are sensors and actuators, dampers, positioning systems and so on. Therefore, the calculation and measurement of magnetic levitation force of magnetic fluid is of vital importance. This paper concerns the peculiar second-order buoyancy experienced by a magnet immersed in magnetic fluid. The expression for calculating the second-order buoyancy was derived, and a novel method for calculating and measuring the second-order buoyancy was proposed based on the expression. The second-order buoyancy was calculated by ANSYS and measured experimentally using the novel method. To verify the novel method, the second-order buoyancy was measured experimentally with a nonmagnetic rod stuck on the top surface of the magnet. The results of calculations and experiments show that the novel method for calculating the second-order buoyancy is correct with high accuracy. In addition, the main causes of error were studied in this paper, including magnetic shielding of magnetic fluid and the movement of magnetic fluid in a nonuniform magnetic field.

Investigation of Heat and Mass Transfer and Irreversibility Phenomena Within a Three-Dimensional Tilted Enclosure for Different Shapes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Oueslati, F.; Ben-Beya, B.

2018-01-01

Three-dimensional thermosolutal natural convection and entropy generation within an inclined enclosure is investigated in the current study. A numerical method based on the finite volume method and a full multigrid technique is implemented to solve the governing equations. Effects of various parameters, namely, the aspect ratio, buoyancy ratio, and tilt angle on the flow patterns and entropy generation are predicted and discussed.

Analysis of Buoyancy Module Auxiliary Installation Technology Based on Numerical Simulation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xu, Songsen; Jiao, Chunshuo; Ning, Meng; Dong, Sheng

2018-04-01

To reduce the requirement for lifting capacity and decrease the hoist cable force during the descending and laying process of a subsea production system (SPS), a buoyancy module auxiliary installation technology was proposed by loading buoyancy modules on the SPS to reduce the lifting weight. Two models are established, namely, the SPS lowering-down model and the buoyancy module floating-up model. The main study results are the following: 1) When the buoyancy module enters the water under wave condition, the amplitude of tension fluctuation is twice that when SPS enters water; 2) Under current condition, the displacement of SPS becomes three times larger because of the existence of the buoyancy module; 3) After being released, the velocity of the buoyancy module increases to a large speed rapidly and then reaches a balancing speed gradually. The buoyancy module floats up at a balancing speed and rushes out from the water at a pop-up distance; 4) In deep water, the floating-up velocity of the buoyancy module is related to its mass density and shape, and it is not related to water depth; 5) A drag parachute can reduce floating-up velocity and pop-up distance effectively. Good agreement was found between the simulation and experiment results.

Magneto-vibratory separation of glass and bronze granular mixtures immersed in a paramagnetic liquid.

PubMed

López-Alcaraz, P; Catherall, A T; Hill, R J A; Leaper, M C; Swift, Michael R; King, P J

2007-10-01

A fluid-immersed granular mixture may spontaneously separate when subjected to vertical vibration, separation occurring when the ratio of particle inertia to fluid drag is sufficiently different between the component species of the mixture. Here, we describe how fluid-driven separation is influenced by magneto-Archimedes buoyancy, the additional buoyancy force experienced by a body immersed in a paramagnetic fluid when a strong inhomogeneous magnetic field is applied. In our experiments glass and bronze mixtures immersed in paramagnetic aqueous solutions of MnCl2 have been subjected to sinusoidal vertical vibration. In the absence of a magnetic field the separation is similar to that observed when the interstitial fluid is water. However, at modest applied magnetic fields, magneto-Archimedes buoyancy may balance the inertia/fluid-drag separation mechanism, or it may dominate the separation process. We identify the vibratory and magnetic conditions for four granular configurations, each having distinctive granular convection. Abrupt transitions between these states occur at well-defined values of the magnetic and vibrational parameters. In order to gain insight into the dynamics of the separation process we use computer simulations based on solutions of the Navier-Stokes' equations. The simulations reproduce the experimental results revealing the important role of convection and gap formation in the stability of the different states.

Opposing flow in square porous annulus: Influence of Dufour effect

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Athani, Abdulgaphur, E-mail: abbu.bec@gmail.com; Al-Rashed, Abdullah A. A. A., E-mail: aa.alrashed@paaet.edu.kw; Khaleed, H. M. T., E-mail: khalid-tan@yahoo.com

Heat and mass transfer in porous medium is very important area of research which is also termed as double diffusive convection or thermo-solutal convection. The buoyancy ratio which is the ratio of thermal to concentration buoyancy can have negative values thus leading to opposing flow. This article is aimed to study the influence of Dufour effect on the opposing flow in a square porous annulus. The partial differential equations that govern the heat and mass transfer behavior inside porous medium are solved using finite element method. A three node triangular element is used to divide the porous domain into smallermore » elements. Results are presented with respect to geometric and physical parameters such as duct diameter ratio, Rayleigh number, radiation parameter etc. It is found that the heat transfer increase with increase in Rayleigh number and radiation parameter. It is observed that Dufour coefficient has more influence on velocity profile.« less

Influence of Capillary Force and Buoyancy on CO2 Migration During CO2 Injection in a Sandstone Reservoir

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wu, H.; Pollyea, R.

2017-12-01

Carbon capture and sequestration (CCS) is one component of a broad carbon management portfolio designed to mitigate adverse effects of anthropogenic CO2 emissions. During CCS, capillary trapping is an important mechanism for CO2 isolation in the disposal reservoir, and, as a result, the distribution of capillary force is an important factor affecting CO2 migration. Moreover, the movement of CO2 being injected to the reservoir is also affected by buoyancy, which results from the density difference between CO2 and brine. In order to understand interactions between capillary force and buoyancy, we implement a parametric modeling experiment of CO2 injections in a sandstone reservoir for combinations of the van Genuchten capillary pressure model that bound the range of capillary pressure-saturation curves measured in laboratory experiments. We simulate ten years supercritical CO2 (scCO2) injections within a 2-D radially symmetric sandstone reservoir for five combinations of the van Genuchten model parameters λ and entry pressure (P0). Results are analyzed on the basis of a modified dimensionless ratio, ω, which is similar to the Bond number and defines the relationship between buoyancy pressure and capillary pressure. We show how parametric variability affects the relationship between buoyancy and capillary force, and thus controls CO2 plume geometry. These results indicate that when ω >1, then buoyancy governs the system and CO2 plume geometry is governed by upward flow. In contrast, when ω <1, then buoyancy is smaller than capillary force and lateral flow governs CO2 plume geometry. As a result, we show that the ω ratio is an easily implemented screening tool for qualitative assessment of reservoir performance.

Numerical solution of mixed convection flow of an MHD Jeffery fluid over an exponentially stretching sheet in the presence of thermal radiation and chemical reaction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shateyi, Stanford; Marewo, Gerald T.

2018-05-01

We numerically investigate a mixed convection model for a magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) Jeffery fluid flowing over an exponentially stretching sheet. The influence of thermal radiation and chemical reaction is also considered in this study. The governing non-linear coupled partial differential equations are reduced to a set of coupled non-linear ordinary differential equations by using similarity functions. This new set of ordinary differential equations are solved numerically using the Spectral Quasi-Linearization Method. A parametric study of physical parameters involved in this study is carried out and displayed in tabular and graphical forms. It is observed that the velocity is enhanced with increasing values of the Deborah number, buoyancy and thermal radiation parameters. Furthermore, the temperature and species concentration are decreasing functions of the Deborah number. The skin friction coefficient increases with increasing values of the magnetic parameter and relaxation time. Heat and mass transfer rates increase with increasing values of the Deborah number and buoyancy parameters.

Thermal buoyancy on Venus - Underthrusting vs subduction

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Burt, Jeffrey D.; Head, James W.

1992-01-01

The thermal and buoyancy consequences of the subduction endmember are modeled in an attempt to evaluate the conditions distinguishing underthrusting and subduction. Thermal changes in slabs subducting into the Venusian mantle with a range of initial geotherms are used to predict density changes and, thus, slab buoyancy. Based on a model for subduction-induced mantle flow, it is then argued that the angle of the slab dip helps differentiate between underthrusting and subduction. Mantle flow applies torques to the slab which, in combination with torques due to slab buoyancy, act to change the angle of slab dip.

Estimating the neutrally buoyant energy density of a Rankine-cycle/fuel-cell underwater propulsion system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Waters, Daniel F.; Cadou, Christopher P.

2014-02-01

A unique requirement of underwater vehicles' power/energy systems is that they remain neutrally buoyant over the course of a mission. Previous work published in the Journal of Power Sources reported gross as opposed to neutrally-buoyant energy densities of an integrated solid oxide fuel cell/Rankine-cycle based power system based on the exothermic reaction of aluminum with seawater. This paper corrects this shortcoming by presenting a model for estimating system mass and using it to update the key findings of the original paper in the context of the neutral buoyancy requirement. It also presents an expanded sensitivity analysis to illustrate the influence of various design and modeling assumptions. While energy density is very sensitive to turbine efficiency (sensitivity coefficient in excess of 0.60), it is relatively insensitive to all other major design parameters (sensitivity coefficients < 0.15) like compressor efficiency, inlet water temperature, scaling methodology, etc. The neutral buoyancy requirement introduces a significant (∼15%) energy density penalty but overall the system still appears to offer factors of five to eight improvements in energy density (i.e., vehicle range/endurance) over present battery-based technologies.

Ceramic Spheres—A Novel Solution to Deep Sea Buoyancy Modules

PubMed Central

Jiang, Bo; Blugan, Gurdial; Sturzenegger, Philip N.; Gonzenbach, Urs T.; Misson, Michael; Thornberry, John; Stenerud, Runar; Cartlidge, David; Kuebler, Jakob

2016-01-01

Ceramic-based hollow spheres are considered a great driving force for many applications such as offshore buoyancy modules due to their large diameter to wall thickness ratio and uniform wall thickness geometric features. We have developed such thin-walled hollow spheres made of alumina using slip casting and sintering processes. A diameter as large as 50 mm with a wall thickness of 0.5–1.0 mm has been successfully achieved in these spheres. Their material and structural properties were examined by a series of characterization tools. Particularly, the feasibility of these spheres was investigated with respect to its application for deep sea (>3000 m) buoyancy modules. These spheres, sintered at 1600 °C and with 1.0 mm of wall thickness, have achieved buoyancy of more than 54%. As the sphere’s wall thickness was reduced (e.g., 0.5 mm), their buoyancy reached 72%. The mechanical performance of such spheres has shown a hydrostatic failure pressure above 150 MPa, corresponding to a rating depth below sea level of 5000 m considering a safety factor of 3. The developed alumina-based ceramic spheres are feasible for low cost and scaled-up production and show great potential at depths greater than those achievable by the current deep-sea buoyancy module technologies. PMID:28773651

How physiological and physical processes contribute to the phenology of cyanobacterial blooms in large shallow lakes: A new Euler-Lagrangian coupled model.

PubMed

Feng, Tao; Wang, Chao; Wang, Peifang; Qian, Jin; Wang, Xun

2018-09-01

Cyanobacterial blooms have emerged as one of the most severe ecological problems affecting large and shallow freshwater lakes. To improve our understanding of the factors that influence, and could be used to predict, surface blooms, this study developed a novel Euler-Lagrangian coupled approach combining the Eulerian model with agent-based modelling (ABM). The approach was subsequently verified based on monitoring datasets and MODIS data in a large shallow lake (Lake Taihu, China). The Eulerian model solves the Eulerian variables and physiological parameters, whereas ABM generates the complete life cycle and transport processes of cyanobacterial colonies. This model ensemble performed well in fitting historical data and predicting the dynamics of cyanobacterial biomass, bloom distribution, and area. Based on the calculated physical and physiological characteristics of surface blooms, principal component analysis (PCA) captured the major processes influencing surface bloom formation at different stages (two bloom clusters). Early bloom outbreaks were influenced by physical processes (horizontal transport and vertical turbulence-induced mixing), whereas buoyancy-controlling strategies were essential for mature bloom outbreaks. Canonical correlation analysis (CCA) revealed the combined actions of multiple environment variables on different bloom clusters. The effects of buoyancy-controlling strategies (ISP), vertical turbulence-induced mixing velocity of colony (VMT) and horizontal drift velocity of colony (HDT) were quantitatively compared using scenario simulations in the coupled model. VMT accounted for 52.9% of bloom formations and maintained blooms over long periods, thus demonstrating the importance of wind-induced turbulence in shallow lakes. In comparison, HDT and buoyancy controlling strategies influenced blooms at different stages. In conclusion, the approach developed here presents a promising tool for understanding the processes of onshore/offshore algal blooms formation and subsequent predicting. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

Effects of Buoyancy on Laminar and Turbulent Premixed V-Flame

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cheng, Robert K.; Bedat, Benoit

1997-01-01

Turbulent combustion occurs naturally in almost all combustion systems and involves complex dynamic coupling of chemical and fluid mechanical processes. It is considered as one of the most challenging combustion research problems today. Though buoyancy has little effect on power generating systems operating under high pressures (e.g., IC engines and turbines), flames in atmospheric burners and the operation of small to medium furnaces and boilers are profoundly affected by buoyancy. Changes in burner orientation impacts on their blow-off, flash-back and extinction limits, and their range of operation, burning rate, heat transfer, and emissions. Theoretically, buoyancy is often neglected in turbulent combustion models. Yet the modeling results are routinely compared with experiments of open laboratory flames that are obviously affected by buoyancy. This inconsistency is an obstacle to reconciling experiments and theories. Consequently, a fundamental understanding of the coupling between turbulent flames and buoyancy is significant to both turbulent combustion science and applications. The overall effect of buoyancy relates to the dynamic interaction between the flame and its surrounding, i.e., the so-called elliptical problem. The overall flame shape, its flowfield, stability, and mean and local burning rates are dictated by both upstream and downstream boundary conditions. In steady propagating premixed flames, buoyancy affects the products region downstream of the flame zone. These effects are manifested upstream through the mean and fluctuating pressure fields to influence flame stretch and flame wrinkling. Intuitively, the effects buoyancy should diminish with increasing flow momentum. This is the justification for excluding buoyancy in turbulent combustion models that treats high Reynolds number flows. The objectives of our experimental research program is to elucidate flame-buoyancy coupling processes in laminar and turbulent premixed flames, and to characterize microgravity (micro g) premixed flames. The results are used to derive appropriate scaling parameters for guiding the development of theoretical models to include the effects of buoyancy. Knowledge gain from the analysis will also contribute to further understanding of the elliptical nature of premixed flames. Our current emphasis is to examine the momentum limit above which the effects of buoyancy would become insignificant. This is accomplished by comparing the flowfields and the mean properties of normal gravity flames (+g), and reversed gravity flames (-g, up-side-down flames) at different flow velocities and turbulence intensities. Microgravity (micro g) flames experiments provide the key reference data to reconcile the differences between flames in +g and -g. As flame configuration has significant impact on premixed flames characteristics we have studied axi-symmetric conical flames and plane-symmetric rod-stabilized v-flames. The two configurations produce distinct features that dictates how the flames couple with buoyancy. In a conical flame, the hot products plume completely envelopes the flame cone and shields the flame from direct interaction with the ambient air. The plume originates at the burner rim and generates a divergent flowfield. In comparison, the products region of v-flames forms between the twin flame sheets and it is convergent towards the center-plane. Interaction with ambient air is limited to the two end regions of the stabilized rod and beyond the flame sheets.

On the classification of buoyancy-driven chemo-hydrodynamic instabilities of chemical fronts.

PubMed

D'Hernoncourt, J; Zebib, A; De Wit, A

2007-03-01

Exothermic autocatalytic fronts traveling in the gravity field can be deformed by buoyancy-driven convection due to solutal and thermal contributions to changes in the density of the product versus the reactant solutions. We classify the possible instability mechanisms, such as Rayleigh-Benard, Rayleigh-Taylor, and double-diffusive mechanisms known to operate in such conditions in a parameter space spanned by the corresponding solutal and thermal Rayleigh numbers. We also discuss a counterintuitive instability leading to buoyancy-driven deformation of statically stable fronts across which a solute-light and hot solution lies on top of a solute-heavy and colder one. The mechanism of this chemically driven instability lies in the coupling of a localized reaction zone and of differential diffusion of heat and mass. Dispersion curves of the various cases are analyzed. A discussion of the possible candidates of autocatalytic reactions and experimental conditions necessary to observe the various instability scenarios is presented.

A New Proposal to Redefine Kilogram by Measuring the Planck Constant Based on Inertial Mass

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Yongmeng; Wang, Dawei

2018-04-01

A novel method to measure the Planck constant based on inertial mass is proposed here, which is distinguished from the conventional Kibble balance experiment which is based on the gravitational mass. The kilogram unit is linked to the Planck constant by calculating the difference of the parameters, i.e. resistance, voltage, velocity and time, which is measured in a two-mode experiment, unloaded mass mode and the loaded mass mode. In principle, all parameters measured in this experiment can reach a high accuracy, as that in Kibble balance experiment. This method has an advantage that some systematic error can be eliminated in difference calculation of measurements. In addition, this method is insensitive to air buoyancy and the alignment work in this experiment is easy. At last, the initial design of the apparatus is presented.

Tidal tomography constrains Earth's deep-mantle buoyancy.

PubMed

Lau, Harriet C P; Mitrovica, Jerry X; Davis, James L; Tromp, Jeroen; Yang, Hsin-Ying; Al-Attar, David

2017-11-15

Earth's body tide-also known as the solid Earth tide, the displacement of the solid Earth's surface caused by gravitational forces from the Moon and the Sun-is sensitive to the density of the two Large Low Shear Velocity Provinces (LLSVPs) beneath Africa and the Pacific. These massive regions extend approximately 1,000 kilometres upward from the base of the mantle and their buoyancy remains actively debated within the geophysical community. Here we use tidal tomography to constrain Earth's deep-mantle buoyancy derived from Global Positioning System (GPS)-based measurements of semi-diurnal body tide deformation. Using a probabilistic approach, we show that across the bottom two-thirds of the two LLSVPs the mean density is about 0.5 per cent higher than the average mantle density across this depth range (that is, its mean buoyancy is minus 0.5 per cent), although this anomaly may be concentrated towards the very base of the mantle. We conclude that the buoyancy of these structures is dominated by the enrichment of high-density chemical components, probably related to subducted oceanic plates or primordial material associated with Earth's formation. Because the dynamics of the mantle is driven by density variations, our result has important dynamical implications for the stability of the LLSVPs and the long-term evolution of the Earth system.

Academic buoyancy and academic outcomes: towards a further understanding of students with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), students without ADHD, and academic buoyancy itself.

PubMed

Martin, Andrew J

2014-03-01

Academic buoyancy is students' capacity to successfully overcome setback and challenge that is typical of the ordinary course of everyday academic life. It may represent an important factor on the psycho-educational landscape assisting students who experience difficulties in school and schoolwork. This study investigated the role of academic buoyancy in the achievement and cognitive, affective and behavioural engagement of (1) students with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and (2) 'regular' (or 'general') students residing in the same classrooms and schools. The study also sought to extend prior research into academic buoyancy by including previously neglected and potentially influential factors such as personality and socio-economic status. Participants were n = 87 high school students with ADHD, n = 3374 non-ADHD peers, and n = 87 randomly drawn non-ADHD students. Survey-based data were analysed using multigroup (ADHD, non-ADHD, randomly weighted non-ADHD) multivariate (multiple independent/covariate and dependent variables) path analysis. The findings revealed a significant and positive association between academic buoyancy and outcomes for students with ADHD that generalized to non-ADHD groups. On occasion where academic buoyancy effects differed between the groups, effects favoured students with ADHD. Furthermore, academic buoyancy explained significant variance in outcomes for both groups of students after covariates (age, gender, parent education, language background, socio-economic status, personality) were entered. It is concluded that there is merit in widely promoting and fostering academic buoyancy among ADHD and non-ADHD students alike - and that academic buoyancy explains variance in outcomes beyond major intrapersonal factors such as personality, socio-economic status, ethnicity, and the like. © 2012 The British Psychological Society.

Mixing with applications to inertial-confinement-fusion implosions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rana, V.; Lim, H.; Melvin, J.; Glimm, J.; Cheng, B.; Sharp, D. H.

2017-01-01

Approximate one-dimensional (1D) as well as 2D and 3D simulations are playing an important supporting role in the design and analysis of future experiments at National Ignition Facility. This paper is mainly concerned with 1D simulations, used extensively in design and optimization. We couple a 1D buoyancy-drag mix model for the mixing zone edges with a 1D inertial confinement fusion simulation code. This analysis predicts that National Ignition Campaign (NIC) designs are located close to a performance cliff, so modeling errors, design features (fill tube and tent) and additional, unmodeled instabilities could lead to significant levels of mix. The performance cliff we identify is associated with multimode plastic ablator (CH) mix into the hot-spot deuterium and tritium (DT). The buoyancy-drag mix model is mode number independent and selects implicitly a range of maximum growth modes. Our main conclusion is that single effect instabilities are predicted not to lead to hot-spot mix, while combined mode mixing effects are predicted to affect hot-spot thermodynamics and possibly hot-spot mix. Combined with the stagnation Rayleigh-Taylor instability, we find the potential for mix effects in combination with the ice-to-gas DT boundary, numerical effects of Eulerian species CH concentration diffusion, and ablation-driven instabilities. With the help of a convenient package of plasma transport parameters developed here, we give an approximate determination of these quantities in the regime relevant to the NIC experiments, while ruling out a variety of mix possibilities. Plasma transport parameters affect the 1D buoyancy-drag mix model primarily through its phenomenological drag coefficient as well as the 1D hydro model to which the buoyancy-drag equation is coupled.

Mixing with applications to inertial-confinement-fusion implosions.

PubMed

Rana, V; Lim, H; Melvin, J; Glimm, J; Cheng, B; Sharp, D H

2017-01-01

Approximate one-dimensional (1D) as well as 2D and 3D simulations are playing an important supporting role in the design and analysis of future experiments at National Ignition Facility. This paper is mainly concerned with 1D simulations, used extensively in design and optimization. We couple a 1D buoyancy-drag mix model for the mixing zone edges with a 1D inertial confinement fusion simulation code. This analysis predicts that National Ignition Campaign (NIC) designs are located close to a performance cliff, so modeling errors, design features (fill tube and tent) and additional, unmodeled instabilities could lead to significant levels of mix. The performance cliff we identify is associated with multimode plastic ablator (CH) mix into the hot-spot deuterium and tritium (DT). The buoyancy-drag mix model is mode number independent and selects implicitly a range of maximum growth modes. Our main conclusion is that single effect instabilities are predicted not to lead to hot-spot mix, while combined mode mixing effects are predicted to affect hot-spot thermodynamics and possibly hot-spot mix. Combined with the stagnation Rayleigh-Taylor instability, we find the potential for mix effects in combination with the ice-to-gas DT boundary, numerical effects of Eulerian species CH concentration diffusion, and ablation-driven instabilities. With the help of a convenient package of plasma transport parameters developed here, we give an approximate determination of these quantities in the regime relevant to the NIC experiments, while ruling out a variety of mix possibilities. Plasma transport parameters affect the 1D buoyancy-drag mix model primarily through its phenomenological drag coefficient as well as the 1D hydro model to which the buoyancy-drag equation is coupled.

Influence of the weighing bar size to determine optimal time of biodiesel-glycerol separation by using the buoyancy weighing-bar method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tambun, R.; Sibagariang, Y.; Manurung, J.

2018-02-01

The buoyancy weighing-bar method is a novel method in the particle size distribution measurement. This method can measure particle size distributions of the settling particles and floating particles. In this study, the buoyancy weighing-bar method is applied to determine optimal time of biodiesel-glycerol separation. The buoyancy weighing-bar method can be applied to determine the separation time because biodiesel and glycerol have the different densities. The influences of diameter of weighing-bar by using the buoyancy weighing-bar method would be experimentally investigated. The diameters of weighing-bar in this experiment are 8 mm, 10 mm, 15 mm and 20 mm, while the graduated cylinder (diameter : 65 mm) is used as vessel. The samples used in this experiment are the mixture of 95 % of biodiesel and 5 % of glycerol. The data obtained by the buoyancy weighing-bar method are analized by using the gas chromatography to determine the purity of biodiesel. Based on the data obtained, the buoyancy weighing-bar method can be used to detect the separation time of biodiesel-glycerol by using the weighing-bar diameter of 8 mm, 10 mm, 15 mm and 20 mm, but the most accuracy in determination the biodiesel-glycerol separation time is obtained by using the weighing-bar diameter of 20 mm. The biodiesel purity of 97.97 % could be detected at 64 minutes by using the buoyancy weighing-bar method when the weighing-bar diameter of 20 mm is used.

Stabilization of a finite slice in miscible displacement in homogeneous porous media

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pramanik, Satyajit; Mishra, Manoranjan

2016-11-01

We numerically studied the miscible displacement of a finite slice of variable viscosity and density. The stability of the finite slice depends on different flow parameters, such as displacement velocity U, mobility ratio R , and the density contrast. Series of numerical simulations corresponding to different ordered pair (R, U) in the parameter space, and a given density contrast reveal six different instability regions. We have shown that independent of the width of the slice, there always exists a region of stable displacement, and below a critical value of the slice width, this stable region increases with decreasing slice width. Further we observe that the viscous fingering (buoyancy-induced instability) at the upper interface induces buoyancy-induced instability (viscous fingering) at the lower interface. Besides the fundamental fluid dynamics understanding, our results can be helpful to model CO2 sequestration and chromatographic separation.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Ashraf, M. Bilal, E-mail: bilalashraf-qau@yahoo.com; Hayat, T.; Department of Mathematics, Faculty of Science, King Abdulaziz University, P. O. Box 80257, Jeddah 21589

Three dimensional radiative flow of Maxwell fluid over an inclined stretching surface with convective boundary condition is investigated. Heat and mass transfer analysis is taken into account with thermophoresis effects. Similarity transformations are utilized to reduce the partial differential equations into ordinary differential equations. Series solutions of velocity, temperature and concentration are developed. Influence of different parameters Biot number, therrmophoretic parameter, Deborah number, ratio parameter, inclined stretching angle, radiation parameter, mixed convection parameter and concentration buoyancy parameter on the non-dimensional velocity components, temperature and concentration are plotted and discussed in detail. Physical quantities of interests are tabulated and examined.

Buoyancy under Control: Underwater Locomotor Performance in a Deep Diving Seabird Suggests Respiratory Strategies for Reducing Foraging Effort

PubMed Central

Cook, Timothée R.; Kato, Akiko; Tanaka, Hideji; Ropert-Coudert, Yan; Bost, Charles-André

2010-01-01

Background Because they have air stored in many body compartments, diving seabirds are expected to exhibit efficient behavioural strategies for reducing costs related to buoyancy control. We study the underwater locomotor activity of a deep-diving species from the Cormorant family (Kerguelen shag) and report locomotor adjustments to the change of buoyancy with depth. Methodology/Principal Findings Using accelerometers, we show that during both the descent and ascent phases of dives, shags modelled their acceleration and stroking activity on the natural variation of buoyancy with depth. For example, during the descent phase, birds increased swim speed with depth. But in parallel, and with a decay constant similar to the one in the equation explaining the decrease of buoyancy with depth, they decreased foot-stroke frequency exponentially, a behaviour that enables birds to reduce oxygen consumption. During ascent, birds also reduced locomotor cost by ascending passively. We considered the depth at which they started gliding as a proxy to their depth of neutral buoyancy. This depth increased with maximum dive depth. As an explanation for this, we propose that shags adjust their buoyancy to depth by varying the amount of respiratory air they dive with. Conclusions/Significance Calculations based on known values of stored body oxygen volumes and on deep-diving metabolic rates in avian divers suggest that the variations of volume of respiratory oxygen associated with a respiration mediated buoyancy control only influence aerobic dive duration moderately. Therefore, we propose that an advantage in cormorants - as in other families of diving seabirds - of respiratory air volume adjustment upon diving could be related less to increasing time of submergence, through an increased volume of body oxygen stores, than to reducing the locomotor costs of buoyancy control. PMID:20352122

The Effects of Buoyancy on Characteristics of Turbulent Nonpremixed Jet Flames

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Idicheria, Cherian; Boxx, Isaac; Clemens, Noel

2002-11-01

This work addresses the influence of buoyant forces on the underlying structure of turbulent nonpremixed jet flames. Buoyancy effects are investigated by studying transitional and turbulent propane and ethylene flames (Re_D=2500-10500) at normal, low and microgravity conditions. The reduced gravity experiments are conducted by dropping a combustion rig in the University of Texas 1.25-second drop tower and the NASA Glenn 2.2-second drop tower. The diagnostic employed is high-speed luminosity imaging using a CCD camera. The images obtained are used to compare flame length, mean, RMS and flame tip oscillation characteristics The results showed that, in contrast to previous studies, the high Reynolds number flames at all gravity levels were essentially identical. Furthermore, the parameter ξL (Becker and Yamazaki, 1978) is sufficient for quantifying the effects of buoyancy on the flame characteristics. The large-scale structure and flame tip dynamics are essentially identical to those of purely momentum driven flames provided ξL is less than approximately 3.

Registration of 3D ultrasound computer tomography and MRI for evaluation of tissue correspondences

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hopp, T.; Dapp, R.; Zapf, M.; Kretzek, E.; Gemmeke, H.; Ruiter, N. V.

2015-03-01

3D Ultrasound Computer Tomography (USCT) is a new imaging method for breast cancer diagnosis. In the current state of development it is essential to correlate USCT with a known imaging modality like MRI to evaluate how different tissue types are depicted. Due to different imaging conditions, e.g. with the breast subject to buoyancy in USCT, a direct correlation is demanding. We present a 3D image registration method to reduce positioning differences and allow direct side-by-side comparison of USCT and MRI volumes. It is based on a two-step approach including a buoyancy simulation with a biomechanical model and free form deformations using cubic B-Splines for a surface refinement. Simulation parameters are optimized patient-specifically in a simulated annealing scheme. The method was evaluated with in-vivo datasets resulting in an average registration error below 5mm. Correlating tissue structures can thereby be located in the same or nearby slices in both modalities and three-dimensional non-linear deformations due to the buoyancy are reduced. Image fusion of MRI volumes and USCT sound speed volumes was performed for intuitive display. By applying the registration to data of our first in-vivo study with the KIT 3D USCT, we could correlate several tissue structures in MRI and USCT images and learn how connective tissue, carcinomas and breast implants observed in the MRI are depicted in the USCT imaging modes.

GoAmazon2014/5 campaign points to deep-inflow approach to deep convection across scales.

PubMed

Schiro, Kathleen A; Ahmed, Fiaz; Giangrande, Scott E; Neelin, J David

2018-05-01

A substantial fraction of precipitation is associated with mesoscale convective systems (MCSs), which are currently poorly represented in climate models. Convective parameterizations are highly sensitive to the assumptions of an entraining plume model, in which high equivalent potential temperature air from the boundary layer is modified via turbulent entrainment. Here we show, using multiinstrument evidence from the Green Ocean Amazon field campaign (2014-2015; GoAmazon2014/5), that an empirically constrained weighting for inflow of environmental air based on radar wind profiler estimates of vertical velocity and mass flux yields a strong relationship between resulting buoyancy measures and precipitation statistics. This deep-inflow weighting has no free parameter for entrainment in the conventional sense, but to a leading approximation is simply a statement of the geometry of the inflow. The structure further suggests the weighting could consistently apply even for coherent inflow structures noted in field campaign studies for MCSs over tropical oceans. For radar precipitation retrievals averaged over climate model grid scales at the GoAmazon2014/5 site, the use of deep-inflow mixing yields a sharp increase in the probability and magnitude of precipitation with increasing buoyancy. Furthermore, this applies for both mesoscale and smaller-scale convection. Results from reanalysis and satellite data show that this holds more generally: Deep-inflow mixing yields a strong precipitation-buoyancy relation across the tropics. Deep-inflow mixing may thus circumvent inadequacies of current parameterizations while helping to bridge the gap toward representing mesoscale convection in climate models.

Fishing for drifts: detecting buoyancy changes of a top marine predator using a step-wise filtering method

PubMed Central

Gordine, Samantha Alex; Fedak, Michael; Boehme, Lars

2015-01-01

ABSTRACT In southern elephant seals (Mirounga leonina), fasting- and foraging-related fluctuations in body composition are reflected by buoyancy changes. Such buoyancy changes can be monitored by measuring changes in the rate at which a seal drifts passively through the water column, i.e. when all active swimming motion ceases. Here, we present an improved knowledge-based method for detecting buoyancy changes from compressed and abstracted dive profiles received through telemetry. By step-wise filtering of the dive data, the developed algorithm identifies fragments of dives that correspond to times when animals drift. In the dive records of 11 southern elephant seals from South Georgia, this filtering method identified 0.8–2.2% of all dives as drift dives, indicating large individual variation in drift diving behaviour. The obtained drift rate time series exhibit that, at the beginning of each migration, all individuals were strongly negatively buoyant. Over the following 75–150 days, the buoyancy of all individuals peaked close to or at neutral buoyancy, indicative of a seal's foraging success. Independent verification with visually inspected detailed high-resolution dive data confirmed that this method is capable of reliably detecting buoyancy changes in the dive records of drift diving species using abstracted data. This also affirms that abstracted dive profiles convey the geometric shape of drift dives in sufficient detail for them to be identified. Further, it suggests that, using this step-wise filtering method, buoyancy changes could be detected even in old datasets with compressed dive information, for which conventional drift dive classification previously failed. PMID:26486362

Swirling plumes and spinning tops

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Frank, Daria; Landel, Julien; Dalziel, Stuart; Linden, Paul

2017-11-01

Motivated by potential effects of the Earth's rotation on the dynamics of the oil plume resulting from the Deepwater Horizon disaster in 2010, we conducted laboratory experiments on saltwater and bubble axisymmetric point plumes in a homogeneous rotating environment. The effect of rotation is conventionally characterized by a Rossby number, based on the source buoyancy flux, the rotation rate of the system and the total water depth and which ranged from 0.02 to 1.3 in our experiments. In the range of parameters studied, we report a striking new physical instability in the plume dynamics near the source. After approximately one rotation period, the plume axis tilts away laterally from the centreline and the plume starts to precess in the anticyclonic direction. We find that the mean precession frequency of the plume scales linearly with the rotation rate of the environment. Surprisingly, the precession frequency is found to be independent of the diameter of the plume nozzle, the source buoyancy flux, the water depth and the geometry of the domain. In this talk, we present our experimental results and develop simple theoretical toy models to explain the observed plume behaviour.

Prevention of Cyanobacterial Blooms Using Nanosilica: A Biomineralization-Inspired Strategy.

PubMed

Xiong, Wei; Tang, Yiming; Shao, Changyu; Zhao, Yueqi; Jin, Biao; Huang, Tingting; Miao, Ya'nan; Shu, Lei; Ma, Weimin; Xu, Xurong; Tang, Ruikang

2017-11-07

Cyanobacterial blooms represent a significant threat to global water resources because blooming cyanobacteria deplete oxygen and release cyanotoxins, which cause the mass death of aquatic organisms. In nature, a large biomass volume of cyanobacteria is a precondition for a bloom, and the cyanobacteria buoyancy is a key parameter for inducing the dense accumulation of cells on the water surface. Therefore, blooms will likely be curtailed if buoyancy is inhibited. Inspired by diatoms with naturally generated silica shells, we found that silica nanoparticles can be spontaneously incorporated onto cyanobacteria in the presence of poly(diallyldimethylammonium chloride), a cationic polyelectrolyte that can simulate biosilicification proteins. The resulting cyanobacteria-SiO 2 complexes can remain sedimentary in water. This strategy significantly inhibited the photoautotrophic growth of the cyanobacteria and decreased their biomass accumulation, which could effectively suppress harmful bloom events. Consequently, several of the adverse consequences of cyanobacteria blooms in water bodies, including oxygen consumption and microcystin release, were significantly alleviated. Based on the above results, we propose that the silica nanoparticle treatment has the potential for use as an efficient strategy for preventing cyanobacteria blooms.

Rigorous buoyancy driven bubble mixing for centrifugal microfluidics.

PubMed

Burger, S; Schulz, M; von Stetten, F; Zengerle, R; Paust, N

2016-01-21

We present batch-mode mixing for centrifugal microfluidics operated at fixed rotational frequency. Gas is generated by the disk integrated decomposition of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) to liquid water (H2O) and gaseous oxygen (O2) and inserted into a mixing chamber. There, bubbles are formed that ascent through the liquid in the artificial gravity field and lead to drag flow. Additionaly, strong buoyancy causes deformation and rupture of the gas bubbles and induces strong mixing flows in the liquids. Buoyancy driven bubble mixing is quantitatively compared to shake mode mixing, mixing by reciprocation and vortex mixing. To determine mixing efficiencies in a meaningful way, the different mixers are employed for mixing of a lysis reagent and human whole blood. Subsequently, DNA is extracted from the lysate and the amount of DNA recovered is taken as a measure for mixing efficiency. Relative to standard vortex mixing, DNA extraction based on buoyancy driven bubble mixing resulted in yields of 92 ± 8% (100 s mixing time) and 100 ± 8% (600 s) at 130g centrifugal acceleration. Shake mode mixing yields 96 ± 11% and is thus equal to buoyancy driven bubble mixing. An advantage of buoyancy driven bubble mixing is that it can be operated at fixed rotational frequency, however. The additional costs of implementing buoyancy driven bubble mixing are low since both the activation liquid and the catalyst are very low cost and no external means are required in the processing device. Furthermore, buoyancy driven bubble mixing can easily be integrated in a monolithic manner and is compatible to scalable manufacturing technologies such as injection moulding or thermoforming. We consider buoyancy driven bubble mixing an excellent alternative to shake mode mixing, in particular if the processing device is not capable of providing fast changes of rotational frequency or if the low average rotational frequency is challenging for the other integrated fluidic operations.

Puffing flame instability - Part II: Predicting the onset and frequency

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Boettcher, Philipp; Shepherd, Joseph; Menon, Shyam; Blanquart, Guillaume

2011-11-01

Experiments and simulations have been performed on fuel rich n- hexane air mixtures in a closed vessel. Both experiments and simulations show a distinct cyclic combustion or ``puffing'' mode. The misalignment of buoyancy induced pressure gradients and density gradients across the flame front is responsible for the generation of vorticity and its subsequent roll-up into vortex rings. In the present work, a simplified model is proposed based on the fundamental interactions between fluid mechanical and chemical parameters. This simplified fluid mechanics model is based on dimensional analysis and is used to predict the onset and frequency of the puffing behavior. This work was sponsored by The Boeing Company through CTBA-GTA-1.

A Study of Baroclinic Instability Induced Convergence Near the Bottom Using Water Age Simulations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Wenxia; Hetland, Robert D.

2018-03-01

Baroclinic instability of lateral density gradients gives way to lateral buoyancy transport, which often results in convergence of buoyancy transport. Along a sloping bottom, the induced convergence can force upward extension of bottom water. Eddy transport induced convergence at the bottom and the consequent suspended layers of bottom properties are investigated using a three-dimensional idealized model. Motivated by the distinct characteristics of intrusions over the Texas-Louisiana shelf, a series of configurations are performed with the purpose of identifying parameter impacts on the intensity of eddy transport. This study uses the "horizontal slope Burger number" as the predominant parameter; the parameter is functioned with SH=SRi-1/2=δ/Ri to identify formation of baroclinic instability, where S is the slope Burger number, δ is the slope parameter, and Ri is the Richardson number, previously shown to be the parameter that predicts the intensity of baroclinic instability on the shelf. Intrusion spreads into the interior abutting a layer that is characterized by degraded vertical stratification; a thickening in the bottom boundary layer colocates with the intrusion, which usually thins at either edge of the intrusion because of a density barrier in association with concentrated isopycnals. The intensity of convergence degrades and bottom tracer fluxes reduce linearly with increased SH on logarithmic scales, and the characteristics of bottom boundary layer behavior and the reversal in alongshore current tend to vanish.

Beat the Odds. Career Buoyancy Tactics for Today's Turbulent Job Market.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Yate, Martin

This book offers a blueprint to achieve and maintain career buoyancy in the face of downsizing, outsourcing, restructuring, and other present and future job-loss situations. The book provides advice on establishing a solid job base with a professional core career in a healthy, growing industry; making use of that care career as a foundation to…

Non-Uniqueness of the Point of Application of the Buoyancy Force

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kliava, Janis; Megel, Jacques

2010-01-01

Even though the buoyancy force (also known as the Archimedes force) has always been an important topic of academic studies in physics, its point of application has not been explicitly identified yet. We present a quantitative approach to this problem based on the concept of the hydrostatic energy, considered here for a general shape of the…

Transient laminar opposing mixed convection in a symmetrically heated duct with a plane symmetric sudden contraction-expansion: Buoyancy an inclination effects

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Martínez-Suástegui, Lorenzo; Barreto, Enrique; Treviño, César

2015-11-01

Transient laminar opposing mixed convection is studied experimentally in an open vertical rectangular channel with two discrete protruded heat sources subjected to uniform heat flux simulating electronic components. Experiments are performed for a Reynolds number of Re = 700, Prandtl number of Pr = 7, inclination angles with respect to the horizontal of γ =0o , 45o and 90o, and different values of buoyancy strength or modified Richardson number, Ri* =Gr* /Re2 . From the experimental measurements, the space averaged surface temperatures, overall Nusselt number of each simulated electronic chip, phase-space plots of the self-oscillatory system, characteristic times of temperature oscillations and spectral distribution of the fluctuating energy have been obtained. Results show that when a threshold in the buoyancy parameter is reached, strong three-dimensional secondary flow oscillations develop in the axial and spanwise directions. This research was supported by the Consejo Nacional de Ciencia y Tecnología (CONACYT), Grant number 167474 and by the Secretaría de Investigación y Posgrado del IPN, Grant number SIP 20141309.

Numerical Analysis of Flow Evolution in a Helium Jet Injected into Ambient Air

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Satti, Rajani P.; Agrawal, Ajay K.

2005-01-01

A computational model to study the stability characteristics of an evolving buoyant helium gas jet in ambient air environment is presented. Numerical formulation incorporates a segregated approach to solve for the transport equations of helium mass fraction coupled with the conservation equations of mixture mass and momentum using a staggered grid method. The operating parameters correspond to the Reynolds number varying from 30 to 300 to demarcate the flow dynamics in oscillating and non-oscillating regimes. Computed velocity and concentration fields were used to analyze the flow structure in the evolving jet. For Re=300 case, results showed that an instability mode that sets in during the evolution process in Earth gravity is absent in zero gravity, signifying the importance of buoyancy. Though buoyancy initiates the instability, below a certain jet exit velocity, diffusion dominates the entrainment process to make the jet non-oscillatory as observed for the Re=30 case. Initiation of the instability was found to be dependent on the interaction of buoyancy and momentum forces along the jet shear layer.

Relations between morphology, buoyancy and energetics of requiem sharks

PubMed Central

Papastamatiou, Yannis P.

2016-01-01

Sharks have a distinctive shape that remained practically unchanged through hundreds of millions of years of evolution. Nonetheless, there are variations of this shape that vary between and within species. We attempt to explain these variations by examining the partial derivatives of the cost of transport of a generic shark with respect to buoyancy, span and chord of its pectoral fins, length, girth and body temperature. Our analysis predicts an intricate relation between these parameters, suggesting that ectothermic species residing in cooler temperatures must either have longer pectoral fins and/or be more buoyant in order to maintain swimming performance. It also suggests that, in general, the buoyancy must increase with size, and therefore, there must be ontogenetic changes within a species, with individuals getting more buoyant as they grow. Pelagic species seem to have near optimally sized fins (which minimize the cost of transport), but the majority of reef sharks could have reduced the cost of transport by increasing the size of their fins. The fact that they do not implies negative selection, probably owing to decreased manoeuvrability in confined spaces (e.g. foraging on a reef). PMID:27853556

DYNAMO EFFECTS NEAR THE TRANSITION FROM SOLAR TO ANTI-SOLAR DIFFERENTIAL ROTATION

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Simitev, Radostin D.; Kosovichev, Alexander G.; Busse, Friedrich H.

2015-09-01

Numerical MHD simulations play an increasingly important role for understanding the mechanisms of stellar magnetism. We present simulations of convection and dynamos in density-stratified rotating spherical fluid shells. We employ a new 3D simulation code for obtaining the solution of a physically consistent anelastic model of the process with a minimum number of parameters. The reported dynamo simulations extend into a “buoyancy-dominated” regime where the buoyancy forcing is dominant while the Coriolis force is no longer balanced by pressure gradients, and strong anti-solar differential rotation develops as a result. We find that the self-generated magnetic fields, despite being relatively weak,more » are able to reverse the direction of differential rotation from anti-solar to solar-like. We also find that convection flows in this regime are significantly stronger in the polar regions than in the equatorial region, leading to non-oscillatory dipole-dominated dynamo solutions, and to a concentration of magnetic field in the polar regions. We observe that convection has a different morphology in the inner and the outer part of the convection zone simultaneously such that organized geostrophic convection columns are hidden below a near-surface layer of well-mixed highly chaotic convection. While we focus our attention on the buoyancy-dominated regime, we also demonstrate that conical differential rotation profiles and persistent regular dynamo oscillations can be obtained in the parameter space of the rotation-dominated regime even within this minimal model.« less

Structural assembly demonstration experiment, phase 1

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Akin, David L.; Bowden, Mary L.; Miller, Rene H.

1983-03-01

The goal of this phase of the structural assembly and demonstration experiment (SADE) program was to begin to define a shuttle flight experiment that would yield data to compare on-orbit assembly operations of large space structures with neutral buoyancy simulations. In addition, the experiment would be an early demonstration of structural hardware and human capabilities in extravehicular activity (EVA). The objectives of the MIT study, as listed in the statement of work, were: to provide support in establishing a baseline neutral buoyancy testing data base, to develop a correlation technique between neutral buoyancy test results and on-orbit operations, and to prepare the SADE experiment plan (MSFC-PLAN-913).

Gravitational Effects on Flow Instability and Transition in Low Density Jets

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Agrawal A. K.; Parthasarathy, K.; Pasumarthi, K.; Griffin, D. W.

2000-01-01

Recent experiments have shown that low-density gas jets injected into a high-density ambient gas undergo an instability mode, leading to highly-periodic oscillations in the flow-field for certain conditions. The transition from laminar to turbulent flow in these jets is abrupt, without the gradual change in scales. Even the fine scale turbulent structure repeats itself with extreme regularity from cycle to cycle. Similar observations were obtained in buoyancy-dominated and momentum-dominated jets characterized by the Richardson numbers, Ri = [gD(rho(sub a)-rho(sub j))/rho(sub j)U(sub j)(exp 2) ] where g is the gravitational acceleration, D is the jet diameter, rho(sub a) and rho(sub a) are, respectively, the free-stream and jet densities, and U(sub j) is the mean jet exit velocity. At high Richardson numbers, the instability is presumably caused by buoyancy since the flow-oscillation frequency (f) or the Strouhal number, St = [fD/U(sub j)] scales with Ri. In momentum-dominated jets, however, the Strouhal number of the oscillating flow is relatively independent of the Ri. In this case, a local absolute instability is predicted in the potential core of low-density jets with S [= rho(sub j)/rho(sub a)] < 0.7, which agrees qualitatively with experiments. Although the instability in gas jets of high Richardson numbers is attributed to buoyancy, direct physical evidence has not been acquired in experiments. If the instability is indeed caused by buoyancy, the near-field flow structure of the jet will change significantly when the buoyancy is removed, for example, in the microgravity environment. Thus, quantitative data on the spatial and temporal evolutions of the instability, length and time scale of the oscillating mode and its effects on the mean flow and breakdown of the potential core are needed in normal and microgravity to delineate gravitational effects in buoyant jets. In momentum dominated low-density jets, the instability is speculated to originate in the potential core. However, experiments have not succeeded in identifying the direct physical cause of the instability. For example, the theory predicts an oscillating mode for S<0.62 in the limit of zero momentum thickness, which contradicts with the experimental findings of Kyle and Sreenivasan. The analyses of momentum-dominated jets neglect buoyancy effects because of the small Richardson number. Although this assumption is appropriate in the potential core, the gravitational effects are important in the annular region surrounding the jet, where the density and velocity gradients are large. This reasoning provides basis for the hypothesis that the instability in low Richardosn number jets studied by Kyle and Sreenivasan and Monkewitz et al. is caused by buoyancy. The striking similarity in characteristics of the instability and virtually the identical conclusions reached by Subbarao and Cantwell in buoyant (Ri>0.5) helium jets on one hand and by Kyle and Sreenivasan in momentum-dominated (Ri<1x10(exp -3)) helium jets on the other support this hypothesis. However, quantitative experiments in normal and microgravity are necessary to obtain direct physical evidence of buoyancy effects on the flow instability and structure of momentum-dominated low-density jets. The primary objective of this new research project is to quantify how buoyancy affects the flow instability and structure in the near field of low-density jets. The flow will be described by the spatial and temporal evolutions of the instability, length and time scales of the oscillating mode, and the mean and fluctuating concentration fields. To meet this objective, concentration measurements will be obtained across the whole field using quantitative Rainbow Schlieren Deflectometry, providing spatial resolution of 0.1mm and temporal resolution of 0.017s to 1ms. The experimental effort will be supplemented with linear stability analysis of low-density jets by considering buoyancy. The first objective of this research is to investigate the effects of gravity on the flow instability and structure of low-density jets. The flow instability in these jets has been attributed to buoyancy. By removing buoyancy in our experiments, we seek to obtain the direct physical evidence of the instability mechanism. In the absence of the instability, the flow structure will undergo a significant change. We seek to quantify these changes by mapping the flow field (in terms of the concentration profiles) of these jets at non-buoyant conditions. Such information is presently lacking in the existing literature. The second objective of this research is to determine if the instability in momentum-driven, low-density jets is caused by buoyancy. At these conditions, the buoyancy effects are commonly ignored because of the small Richardson based on global parameters. By eliminating buoyancy in our experiments, globally as well as locally, we seek to examine the possibility that the instability mechanism in self-excited, buoyant or momentum-driven jets is the same. To meet this objective, we would quantify the jet flow in normal and microgravity, while systematically decreasing the Richardson number from buoyancy-driven to momentum driven flow regime. The third objective of this research is to perform a linear stability analysis of low-density gas jets by including the gravitational effects. The flow oscillations in these jets are attributed to an absolute instability, whereby the disturbance grows exponentially at the site to ultimately contaminate the entire flow field. We seek to study the characteristics of both convective and absolute instabilities and demarcate the boundary between them.

Buoyancy-driven instabilities around miscible A+B→C reaction fronts: a general classification.

PubMed

Trevelyan, P M J; Almarcha, C; De Wit, A

2015-02-01

Upon contact between miscible solutions of reactants A and B along a horizontal interface in the gravity field, various buoyancy-driven instabilities can develop when an A+B→C reaction takes place and the density varies with the concentrations of the various chemicals. To classify the possible convective instability scenarios, we analyze the spatial dependence of the large time asymptotic density profiles as a function of the key parameters of the problem, which are the ratios of diffusion coefficients and of solutal expansion coefficients of species A, B, and C. We find that 62 different density profiles can develop in the reactive problem, whereas only 6 of them can be obtained in the nonreactive one.

Density stratification effects in sand-bed rivers

USGS Publications Warehouse

Wright, S.; Parker, G.

2004-01-01

In this paper the effects of density stratification in sand-bed rivers are studied by the application of a model of vertical velocity and concentration profiles, coupled through the use of a turbulence closure that retains the buoyancy terms. By making the governing equations dimensionless, it is revealed that the slope is the additional dimensionless parameter introduced by inclusion of the buoyancy terms. The primary new finding is that in general density stratification effects tend to be greater in large, low-slope rivers than in their smaller, steeper brethren. Under high flow conditions the total suspended load and size distribution of suspended sediment can be significantly affected by density stratification, and should be accounted for in any general theory of suspended transport. ?? ASCE.

Level of Neutral Buoyancy, Deep Convective Outflow, and Hot Tower: New Perspectives Based on the A-Train Observations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Takahashi, H.; Luo, J.; Stephens, G. L.

2016-12-01

Deep convective cores, or "hot towers (HTs)", play a significant role in controlling the energy budgets and hydrological cycles. The vertical convective transport by HTs is like an express elevator transporting the near-surface air directly into the upper troposphere or lower stratosphere (e.g., Riehl and Malkus, 1958; Sun and Lindzen, 1993; Soden and Fu, 1995). The vertical convective transport will eventually make a transition to horizontal outflows where widespread cirrus anvils develop, which also play an important role in radiative-convective feedbacks (e.g., Stephens et al. 2008). In this study, we introduce two proxies to evaluate the strength of vertical and horizontal convective mass transport by hot towers. Result shows that HTs tend to have wider horizontal mass transport over land than ocean. In addition, an important aspect of the deep convection-to-outflow transition is the altitude where the outflow occurs, which can be conveniently summarized into a single parameter called level of neutral buoyancy (LNB). LNB is a critical parameter for understanding convection because it sets the potential vertical extent for convective development. This study develops a deeper and more comprehensive understanding of the relationship between LNB and deep convective outflow, including regional variations. To this end, a useful proxy to estimate convective dilution is introduced. Results show that active convective dilution can be seen over the Warm Pool throughout the year, while deep convection over tropical Africa and Amazonia tends to be less diluted.

A Physically Based Algorithm for Non-Blackbody Correction of Cloud-Top Temperature and Application to Convection Study

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wang, Chunpeng; Lou, Zhengzhao Johnny; Chen, Xiuhong; Zeng, Xiping; Tao, Wei-Kuo; Huang, Xianglei

2014-01-01

Cloud-top temperature (CTT) is an important parameter for convective clouds and is usually different from the 11-micrometers brightness temperature due to non-blackbody effects. This paper presents an algorithm for estimating convective CTT by using simultaneous passive [Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS)] and active [CloudSat 1 Cloud-Aerosol Lidar and Infrared Pathfinder Satellite Observations (CALIPSO)] measurements of clouds to correct for the non-blackbody effect. To do this, a weighting function of the MODIS 11-micrometers band is explicitly calculated by feeding cloud hydrometer profiles from CloudSat and CALIPSO retrievals and temperature and humidity profiles based on ECMWF analyses into a radiation transfer model.Among 16 837 tropical deep convective clouds observed by CloudSat in 2008, the averaged effective emission level (EEL) of the 11-mm channel is located at optical depth; approximately 0.72, with a standard deviation of 0.3. The distance between the EEL and cloud-top height determined by CloudSat is shown to be related to a parameter called cloud-top fuzziness (CTF), defined as the vertical separation between 230 and 10 dBZ of CloudSat radar reflectivity. On the basis of these findings a relationship is then developed between the CTF and the difference between MODIS 11-micrometers brightness temperature and physical CTT, the latter being the non-blackbody correction of CTT. Correction of the non-blackbody effect of CTT is applied to analyze convective cloud-top buoyancy. With this correction, about 70% of the convective cores observed by CloudSat in the height range of 6-10 km have positive buoyancy near cloud top, meaning clouds are still growing vertically, although their final fate cannot be determined by snapshot observations.

Space Station Freedom combustion research

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Faeth, G. M.

1992-01-01

Extended operations in microgravity, on board spacecraft like Space Station Freedom, provide both unusual opportunities and unusual challenges for combustion science. On the one hand, eliminating the intrusion of buoyancy provides a valuable new perspective for fundamental studies of combustion phenomena. On the other hand, however, the absence of buoyancy creates new hazards of fires and explosions that must be understood to assure safe manned space activities. These considerations - and the relevance of combustion science to problems of pollutants, energy utilization, waste incineration, power and propulsion systems, and fire and explosion hazards, among others - provide strong motivation for microgravity combustion research. The intrusion of buoyancy is a greater impediment to fundamental combustion studies than to most other areas of science. Combustion intrinsically heats gases with the resulting buoyant motion at normal gravity either preventing or vastly complicating measurements. Perversely, this limitation is most evident for fundamental laboratory experiments; few practical combustion phenomena are significantly affected by buoyancy. Thus, we have never observed the most fundamental combustion phenomena - laminar premixed and diffusion flames, heterogeneous flames of particles and surfaces, low-speed turbulent flames, etc. - without substantial buoyant disturbances. This precludes rational merging of theory, where buoyancy is of little interest, and experiments, that always are contaminated by buoyancy, which is the traditional path for developing most areas of science. The current microgravity combustion program seeks to rectify this deficiency using both ground-based and space-based facilities, with experiments involving space-based facilities including: laminar premixed flames, soot processes in laminar jet diffusion flames, structure of laminar and turbulent jet diffusion flames, solid surface combustion, one-dimensional smoldering, ignition and flame spread of liquids, drop combustion, and quenching of panicle-air flames. Unfortunately, the same features that make microgravity attractive for fundamental combustion experiments, introduce new fire and explosion hazards that have no counterpart on earth. For example, microgravity can cause broader flammability limits, novel regimes of flame spread, enhanced effects of flame radiation, slower fire detector response, and enhanced combustion upon injecting fire extinguishing agents, among others. On the other hand, spacecraft provide an opportunity to use 'fire-safe' atmospheres due to their controlled environment. Investigation of these problems is just beginning, with specific fire safety experiments supplementing the space based fundamental experiments listed earlier; thus, much remains to be done to develop an adequate technology base for fire and explosion safety considerations for spacecraft.

Constraining LLSVP Buoyancy With Tidal Tomography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lau, H. C. P.; Mitrovica, J. X.; Davis, J. L.; Tromp, J.; Yang, H. Y.; Al-Attar, D.

2017-12-01

Using a global GPS data set of high precision measurements of the Earth's body tide, we perform a tomographic inversion to constrain the integrated buoyancy of the Large Low Shear Velocity Provinces (LLSVPs) at the base of the mantle. As a consequence of the long-wavelength and low frequency nature of the Earth's body tide, these observations are particularly sensitivity to LLSVP buoyancy, a property of Earth's mantle that remains a source of ongoing debate. Using a probabilistic approach we find that the data are best fit when the bottom two thirds ( 700 km) of the LLSVPs have an integrated excess density of 0.60%. The detailed distribution of this buoyancy, for example whether it primarily resides in a thin layer at the base of the mantle, will require further testing and the augmentation of the inversions to include independent data sets (e.g., seismic observations). In any case, our inference of excess density requires the preservation of chemical heterogeneity associated with the enrichment of high-density chemical components, possibly linked to subducted oceanic plates and/or primordial material, in the deep mantle. This conclusion has important implications for the stability of these structures and, in turn, the history and ongoing evolution of the Earth system.

Surfactants for Bubble Removal against Buoyancy

PubMed Central

Raza, Md. Qaisar; Kumar, Nirbhay; Raj, Rishi

2016-01-01

The common phenomenon of buoyancy-induced vapor bubble lift-off from a heated surface is of importance to many areas of science and technology. In the absence of buoyancy in zero gravity of space, non-departing bubbles coalesce to form a big dry patch on the heated surface and heat transfer deteriorates despite the high latent heat of vaporization of water. The situation is worse on an inverted heater in earth gravity where both buoyancy and surface tension act upwards to oppose bubble removal. Here we report a robust passive technique which uses surfactants found in common soaps and detergents to avoid coalescence and remove bubbles downwards, away from an inverted heater. A force balance model is developed to demonstrate that the force of repulsion resulting from the interaction of surfactants adsorbed at the neighboring liquid-vapor interfaces of the thin liquid film contained between bubbles is strong enough to overcome buoyancy and surface tension. Bubble removal frequencies in excess of ten Hz resulted in more than twofold enhancement in heat transfer in comparison to pure water. We believe that this novel bubble removal mechanism opens up opportunities for designing boiling-based systems for space applications. PMID:26743179

Surfactants for Bubble Removal against Buoyancy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Raza, Md. Qaisar; Kumar, Nirbhay; Raj, Rishi

2016-01-01

The common phenomenon of buoyancy-induced vapor bubble lift-off from a heated surface is of importance to many areas of science and technology. In the absence of buoyancy in zero gravity of space, non-departing bubbles coalesce to form a big dry patch on the heated surface and heat transfer deteriorates despite the high latent heat of vaporization of water. The situation is worse on an inverted heater in earth gravity where both buoyancy and surface tension act upwards to oppose bubble removal. Here we report a robust passive technique which uses surfactants found in common soaps and detergents to avoid coalescence and remove bubbles downwards, away from an inverted heater. A force balance model is developed to demonstrate that the force of repulsion resulting from the interaction of surfactants adsorbed at the neighboring liquid-vapor interfaces of the thin liquid film contained between bubbles is strong enough to overcome buoyancy and surface tension. Bubble removal frequencies in excess of ten Hz resulted in more than twofold enhancement in heat transfer in comparison to pure water. We believe that this novel bubble removal mechanism opens up opportunities for designing boiling-based systems for space applications.

Longitudinal modelling of academic buoyancy and motivation: do the '5Cs' hold up over time?

PubMed

Martin, Andrew J; Colmar, Susan H; Davey, Louise A; Marsh, Herbert W

2010-09-01

Academic buoyancy is students' ability to successfully deal with setbacks and challenges that are typical of academic life. The present study extends previous preliminary cross-sectional work that tentatively identified five motivational predictors of academic buoyancy - referred to as the '5Cs' of academic buoyancy: confidence (self-efficacy), coordination (planning), commitment (persistence), composure (low anxiety), and control (low uncertain control). The study seeks to more clearly ascertain the effects of motivation (and its mediating role) on academic buoyancy over and above prior academic buoyancy. The study comprised N=1,866 high school students from six schools. Longitudinal data were collected (1 year apart) and the hypothesized model exploring longitudinal effects was tested using structural equation modelling. After controlling for prior variance in academic buoyancy, the 5Cs were significant predictors of subsequent academic buoyancy. Furthermore, over and above the direct effects of prior academic buoyancy on subsequent academic buoyancy, the 5Cs significantly mediated this relationship. The study concludes with a discussion of the substantive, applied, and methodological implications for researchers and practitioners seeking to investigate and address the academic buoyancy of students who require the capacity to effectively function in an ever-challenging school environment.

Large eddy simulations of time-dependent and buoyancy-driven channel flows

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cabot, William H.

1993-01-01

The primary goal of this work has been to assess the performance of the dynamic SGS model in the large eddy simulation (LES) of channel flows in a variety of situations, viz., in temporal development of channel flow turned by a transverse pressure gradient and especially in buoyancy-driven turbulent flows such as Rayleigh-Benard and internally heated channel convection. For buoyancy-driven flows, there are additional buoyant terms that are possible in the base models, and one objective has been to determine if the dynamic SGS model results are sensitive to such terms. The ultimate goal is to determine the minimal base model needed in the dynamic SGS model to provide accurate results in flows with more complicated physical features. In addition, a program of direct numerical simulation (DNS) of fully compressible channel convection has been undertaken to determine stratification and compressibility effects. These simulations are intended to provide a comparative base for performing the LES of compressible (or highly stratified, pseudo-compressible) convection at high Reynolds number in the future.

Modeling crop residue burning experiments to evaluate smoke emissions and plume transport.

PubMed

Zhou, Luxi; Baker, Kirk R; Napelenok, Sergey L; Pouliot, George; Elleman, Robert; O'Neill, Susan M; Urbanski, Shawn P; Wong, David C

2018-06-15

Crop residue burning is a common land management practice that results in emissions of a variety of pollutants with negative health impacts. Modeling systems are used to estimate air quality impacts of crop residue burning to support retrospective regulatory assessments and also for forecasting purposes. Ground and airborne measurements from a recent field experiment in the Pacific Northwest focused on cropland residue burning was used to evaluate model performance in capturing surface and aloft impacts from the burning events. The Community Multiscale Air Quality (CMAQ) model was used to simulate multiple crop residue burns with 2 km grid spacing using field-specific information and also more general assumptions traditionally used to support National Emission Inventory based assessments. Field study specific information, which includes area burned, fuel consumption, and combustion completeness, resulted in increased biomass consumption by 123 tons (60% increase) on average compared to consumption estimated with default methods in the National Emission Inventory (NEI) process. Buoyancy heat flux, a key parameter for model predicted fire plume rise, estimated from fuel loading obtained from field measurements can be 30% to 200% more than when estimated using default field information. The increased buoyancy heat flux resulted in higher plume rise by 30% to 80%. This evaluation indicates that the regulatory air quality modeling system can replicate intensity and transport (horizontal and vertical) features for crop residue burning in this region when region-specific information is used to inform emissions and plume rise calculations. Further, previous vertical emissions allocation treatment of putting all cropland residue burning in the surface layer does not compare well with measured plume structure and these types of burns should be modeled more similarly to prescribed fires such that plume rise is based on an estimate of buoyancy. Copyright © 2018 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

40 CFR 1065.690 - Buoyancy correction for PM sample media.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-07-01

... Buoyancy correction for PM sample media. (a) General. Correct PM sample media for their buoyancy in air if you weigh them on a balance. The buoyancy correction depends on the sample media density, the density of air, and the density of the calibration weight used to calibrate the balance. The buoyancy...

Oxygen depletion in coastal seas and the effective spawning stock biomass of an exploited fish species

PubMed Central

Hinrichsen, H.-H.; von Dewitz, B.; Dierking, J.; Haslob, H.; Makarchouk, A.; Petereit, C.; Voss, R.

2016-01-01

Environmental conditions may have previously underappreciated effects on the reproductive processes of commercially exploited fish populations, for example eastern Baltic cod, that are living at the physiological limits of their distribution. In the Baltic Sea, salinity affects neutral egg buoyancy, which is positively correlated with egg survival, as only water layers away from the oxygen consumption-dominated sea bottom contain sufficient oxygen. Egg buoyancy is positively correlated to female spawner age/size. From observations in the Baltic Sea, a field-based relationship between egg diameter and buoyancy (floating depth) could be established. Hence, based on the age structure of the spawning stock, we quantify the number of effective spawners, which are able to reproduce under ambient hydrographic conditions. For the time period 1993–2010, our results revealed large variations in the horizontal extent of spawning habitat (1000–20 000 km2) and oxygen-dependent egg survival (10–80%). The novel concept of an effective spawning stock biomass takes into account offspring that survive depending on the spawning stock age/size structure, if reproductive success is related to egg buoyancy and the extent of hypoxic areas. Effective spawning stock biomass reflected the role of environmental conditions for Baltic cod recruitment better than the spawning stock biomass alone, highlighting the importance of including environmental information in ecosystem-based management approaches. PMID:26909164

Body density and diving gas volume of the northern bottlenose whale (Hyperoodon ampullatus).

PubMed

Miller, Patrick; Narazaki, Tomoko; Isojunno, Saana; Aoki, Kagari; Smout, Sophie; Sato, Katsufumi

2016-08-15

Diving lung volume and tissue density, reflecting lipid store volume, are important physiological parameters that have only been estimated for a few breath-hold diving species. We fitted 12 northern bottlenose whales with data loggers that recorded depth, 3-axis acceleration and speed either with a fly-wheel or from change of depth corrected by pitch angle. We fitted measured values of the change in speed during 5 s descent and ascent glides to a hydrodynamic model of drag and buoyancy forces using a Bayesian estimation framework. The resulting estimate of diving gas volume was 27.4±4.2 (95% credible interval, CI) ml kg(-1), closely matching the measured lung capacity of the species. Dive-by-dive variation in gas volume did not correlate with dive depth or duration. Estimated body densities of individuals ranged from 1028.4 to 1033.9 kg m(-3) at the sea surface, indicating overall negative tissue buoyancy of this species in seawater. Body density estimates were highly precise with ±95% CI ranging from 0.1 to 0.4 kg m(-3), which would equate to a precision of <0.5% of lipid content based upon extrapolation from the elephant seal. Six whales tagged near Jan Mayen (Norway, 71°N) had lower body density and were closer to neutral buoyancy than six whales tagged in the Gully (Nova Scotia, Canada, 44°N), a difference that was consistent with the amount of gliding observed during ascent versus descent phases in these animals. Implementation of this approach using longer-duration tags could be used to track longitudinal changes in body density and lipid store body condition of free-ranging cetaceans. © 2016. Published by The Company of Biologists Ltd.

Body density and diving gas volume of the northern bottlenose whale (Hyperoodon ampullatus)

PubMed Central

Miller, Patrick; Narazaki, Tomoko; Isojunno, Saana; Aoki, Kagari; Smout, Sophie; Sato, Katsufumi

2016-01-01

ABSTRACT Diving lung volume and tissue density, reflecting lipid store volume, are important physiological parameters that have only been estimated for a few breath-hold diving species. We fitted 12 northern bottlenose whales with data loggers that recorded depth, 3-axis acceleration and speed either with a fly-wheel or from change of depth corrected by pitch angle. We fitted measured values of the change in speed during 5 s descent and ascent glides to a hydrodynamic model of drag and buoyancy forces using a Bayesian estimation framework. The resulting estimate of diving gas volume was 27.4±4.2 (95% credible interval, CI) ml kg−1, closely matching the measured lung capacity of the species. Dive-by-dive variation in gas volume did not correlate with dive depth or duration. Estimated body densities of individuals ranged from 1028.4 to 1033.9 kg m−3 at the sea surface, indicating overall negative tissue buoyancy of this species in seawater. Body density estimates were highly precise with ±95% CI ranging from 0.1 to 0.4 kg m−3, which would equate to a precision of <0.5% of lipid content based upon extrapolation from the elephant seal. Six whales tagged near Jan Mayen (Norway, 71°N) had lower body density and were closer to neutral buoyancy than six whales tagged in the Gully (Nova Scotia, Canada, 44°N), a difference that was consistent with the amount of gliding observed during ascent versus descent phases in these animals. Implementation of this approach using longer-duration tags could be used to track longitudinal changes in body density and lipid store body condition of free-ranging cetaceans. PMID:27296044

Stratified wakes, the high Froude number approximation, and potential flow

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Vasholz, David P.

2011-12-01

Properties of a steady wake generated by a body moving uniformly at constant depth through a stratified fluid are studied as a function of two parameters inserted into the linearized equations of motion. The first parameter, μ, multiplies the along-track gradient term in the source equation. When formal solutions for an arbitrary buoyancy frequency profile are written as eigenfunction expansions, one finds that the limit μ → 0 corresponds to a high Froude number approximation accompanied by a substantial reduction in the complexity of the calculation. For μ = 1, upstream effects are present and the eigenvalues correspond to critical speeds above which transverse waves disappear for any given mode. For sufficiently high modes, the high Froude number approximation is valid. The second tracer multiplies the square of the buoyancy frequency term in the linearized conservation of mass equation and enables direct comparisons with the limit of potential flow. Detailed results are given for the simplest possible profile, in which the buoyancy frequency is independent of depth; emphasis is placed upon quantities that can, in principle, be experimentally measured in a laboratory experiment. The vertical displacement field is written in terms of a stratified wake form factor {{H}} , which is the sum of a wavelike contribution that is non-zero downstream and an evanescent contribution that appears symmetrically upstream and downstream. First- and second-order cross-track moments of {{H}} are analyzed. First-order results predict enhanced upstream vertical displacements. Second-order results expand upon previous predictions of wavelike resonances and also predict evanescent resonance effects.

Large-eddy simulation of slope flow over and within a vegetation canopy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Li, W.; Katul, G. G.; Parlange, M. B.; Giometto, M. G.

2017-12-01

Large-eddy simulation is used to characterize the turbulent structure of katabatic flows interacting with vegetation canopies in the absence of rotation. Numerical experiments are conducted first considering homogeneous surface forcing over an infinite planar slope, resembling the settings of the classic Prandtl one-dimensional slope flow model. A series of homogeneous plant canopies are accounted for using a spatially-distributed drag and buoyancy-induced forces, both function of the canopy leaf-area density parameter. The current study provides a new perspective on the problem of canopy flows, whose numerical studies have to-date mostly focused on pressure-driven atmospheric boundary-layer flow settings or on complex topography but without buoyancy. The dependence of the solution to the grid stencil, subgrid-scale model, and domain size will be analyzed, to assess the quality and reliability of the proposed results. A sensitivity analysis will then be conducted to test the dependence of mean flow and turbulence to the model parameters. Results will be contrasted with those from corresponding runs with no vegetation canopy.

Lagrangian transport in a class of three-dimensional buoyancy-driven flows

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Contreras, Sebastian; Speetjens, Michel; Clercx, Herman

2017-11-01

The study concerns the Lagrangian dynamics of three-dimensional (3D) buoyancy-driven cavity flows under steady and laminar conditions due to a global temperature gradient imposed via an opposite hot and cold sidewall. This serves as archetypal configuration for natural-convection flows in which gravity is perpendicular to the global temperature gradient. Limited insight into the Lagrangian properties of this class of flows motivates this study. The 3D Lagrangian dynamics are investigated in terms of the generic structure of the Lagrangian flow topology that is described in terms of the Grashof number (Gr) and the Prandtl number (Pr). Gr is the principal control parameter for the flow topology: vanishing Gr yields a state of closed streamlines (integrable state); increasing Gr causes the formation of toroidal coherent structures embedded in chaotic streamlines governed by Hamiltonian mechanisms. Fluid inertia prevails for ``smaller'' Gr. A buoyancy-induced bifurcation of the flow topology occurs for ``larger'' Gr and underlies the emergence of ``secondary rolls'' and secondary tori for ``larger'' Pr. Stagnation points and corresponding manifold interactions are key to the dynamics. S.C. acknowledges financial support from Consejo Nacional de Ciencia y Tecnología (CONACYT).

Mixed convection flow of sodium alginate (SA-NaAlg) based molybdenum disulphide (MoS2) nanofluids: Maxwell Garnetts and Brinkman models

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ahmed, Tarek Nabil; Khan, Ilyas

2018-03-01

This article aims to study the mixed convection heat transfer in non-Newtonian nanofluids over an infinite vertical plate. Mixed convection is caused due to buoyancy force and sudden plate motion. Sodium alginate (SA-NaAlg) is considered as non-Newtonian base fluid and molybdenum disulphide (MoS2) as nanoparticles are suspended in it. The effective thermal conductivity and viscosity of nanofluid are calculated using the Maxwell-Garnetts (MG) and Brinkman models, respectively. The flow is modeled in the form of partial differential equations with imposed physical conditions. Exact solutions for velocity and temperature fields are developed by means of the Laplace transform technique. Numerical computations are performed for different governing parameters such as non-Newtonian parameter, Grashof number and nanoparticle volume fraction and the results are plotted in various graphs. Results for skin friction and Nusselt number are presented in tabular form which show that increasing nanoparticle volume fraction leads to heat transfer enhancement and increasing skin friction.

On Cascade Energy Transfer in Convective Turbulence

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Shestakov, A. V.; Stepanov, R. A.; Frick, P. G.

2017-12-01

The paper is devoted to specificities of the cascade processes in developed turbulence existing on a background of the density (temperature) gradient either parallel (turbulence in a stably stratified (SS) medium) or antiparallel (convective turbulence (CT)) to the gravitational force. Our main attention is paid to the Obukhov-Bolgiano (OB) regime, which presumes a balance between the buoyancy and nonlinear forces in a sufficiently extensive part of the inertial interval. Up to now, there has been no reliable evidence of the existence of the OB regime, although fragments of spectra with slopes close to-11/5 and-7/5 were detected in some works on the numerical simulations of convective turbulence. The paper presents a critical comparison of these data with the results obtained in this work using the cascade model of convective turbulence, which makes it possible to consider a wide range of control parameters. The cascade model is new and was obtained by the generalization of the class of helical cascade models to the case of turbulent convection. It is shown that, in developed turbulence, which is characterized by an interval with a constant spectral flux of kinetic energy, the buoyancy force cannot compete with nonlinear interactions and has no essential effect on the dynamics of the inertial interval. It is the buoyancy force that supplies the cascade process with energy in convective turbulence but only in the maximum scales. Under the SS conditions, the buoyancy forces reduce the energy of turbulent pulsations. In the case of stable stratification, the buoyancy force reduces the turbulence pulsation energy. The OB regime arises in none of these cases, but, in the scales beyond the inertial interval, Kolmogorov's turbulence with the "-5/3" law, in which temperature behaves like a passive admixture, is established. The observed deviations from the "-5/3" spectrum, erroneously interpreted as the OB regime, are manifested in the case of insufficient separation of the macroscale of turbulence and the dissipative scale.

Large eddy simulation of fire-induced buoyancy driven plume dispersion in an urban street canyon under perpendicular wind flow.

PubMed

Hu, L H; Huo, R; Yang, D

2009-07-15

The dispersion of fire-induced buoyancy driven plume in and above an idealized street canyon of 18 m (width) x 18 m (height) x 40 m (length) with a wind flow perpendicular to its axis was investigated by Fire Dynamics Simulator (FDS), Large Eddy Simulation (LES). Former studies, such as that by Oka [T.R. Oke, Street design and urban canopy layer climate, Energy Build. 11 (1988) 103-113], Gayev and Savory [Y.A. Gayev, E. Savory, Influence of street obstructions on flow processes within street canyons. J. Wind Eng. Ind. Aerodyn. 82 (1999) 89-103], Xie et al. [S. Xie, Y. Zhang, L. Qi, X. Tang, Spatial distribution of traffic-related pollutant concentrations in street canyons. Atmos. Environ. 37 (2003) 3213-3224], Baker et al. [J. Baker, H. L. Walker, X. M. Cai, A study of the dispersion and transport of reactive pollutants in and above street canyons--a large eddy simulation, Atmos. Environ. 38 (2004) 6883-6892] and Baik et al. [J.-J. Baik, Y.-S. Kang, J.-J. Kim, Modeling reactive pollutant dispersion in an urban street canyon, Atmos. Environ. 41 (2007) 934-949], focus on the flow pattern and pollutant dispersion in the street canyon with no buoyancy effect. Results showed that with the increase of the wind flow velocity, the dispersion pattern of a buoyant plume fell into four regimes. When the wind flow velocity increased up to a certain critical level, the buoyancy driven upward rising plume was re-entrained back into the street canyon. This is a dangerous situation as the harmful fire smoke will accumulate to pollute the environment and thus threaten the safety of the people in the street canyon. This critical re-entrainment wind velocity, as an important parameter to be concerned, was further revealed to increase asymptotically with the heat/buoyancy release rate of the fire.

Buoyancy differences among two deepwater ciscoes from the Great Lakes and their putative ancestor

USGS Publications Warehouse

Krause, A.E.; Eshenroder, R.L.; Begnoche, L.J.

2002-01-01

We analyzed buoyancy in two deepwater ciscoes, Coregonus hoyi and C. kiyi, and in C. artedi, their putative ancestor, and also analyzed how variations in fish weight, water content, and lipid content affected buoyancy. Buoyancy was significantly different among the three species (p < 0.0001). Estimates of percent buoyancy (neutral buoyancy = 0.0%) were: kiyi, 3.8%; hoyi, 4.7%; and artedi, 5.7%. Buoyancy did not change with fish weight alone (p = 0.38). Fish weight was negatively related to water content for all three species (p = 0.037). Lipid content was not significantly different between hoyi and kiyi, but artedi had significantly fewer lipids than hoyi and kiyi (p < 0.10). When artedi was removed from the analysis, fish weight and lipids accounted for 48% of the variation in buoyancy (p = 0.003), fatter hoyi were less dense than leaner hoyi, but fatter and leaner kiyi were no different in density. Our findings provide additional evidence that buoyancy regulation was a speciating mechanism in deepwater ciscoes and that kiyi is more specialized than hoyi for diel-vertical migration in deep water.

Study of ATES thermal behavior using a steady flow model

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Doughty, C.; Hellstroem, G.; Tsang, C. F.; Claesson, J.

1981-01-01

The thermal behavior of a single well aquifer thermal energy storage system in which buoyancy flow is neglected is studied. A dimensionless formulation of the energy transport equations for the aquifer system is presented, and the key dimensionless parameters are discussed. A simple numerical model is used to generate graphs showing the thermal behavior of the system as a function of these parameters. Some comparisons with field experiments are given to illustrate the use of the dimensionless groups and graphs.

Large-Scale Flow Structure in Turbulent Nonpremixed Flames under Normal- And Low-Gravity Conditions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Clemens, N. T.; Idicheria, C. A.; Boxx, I. G.

2001-01-01

It is well known that buoyancy has a major influence on the flow structure of turbulent nonpremixed jet flames. Buoyancy acts by inducing baroclinic torques, which generate large-scale vortical structures that can significantly modify the flow field. Furthermore, some suggest that buoyancy can substantially influence the large-scale structure of even nominally momentum-dominated flames, since the low velocity flow outside of the flame will be more susceptible to buoyancy effects. Even subtle buoyancy effects may be important because changes in the large-scale structure affects the local entrainment and fluctuating strain rate, and hence the structure of the flame. Previous studies that have compared the structure of normal- and micro-gravity nonpremixed jet flames note that flames in microgravity are longer and wider than in normal-gravity. This trend was observed for jet flames ranging from laminar to turbulent regimes. Furthermore, imaging of the flames has shown possible evidence of helical instabilities and disturbances starting from the base of the flame in microgravity. In contrast, these characteristics were not observed in normal-gravity. The objective of the present study is to further advance our knowledge of the effects of weak levels of buoyancy on the structure of transitional and turbulent nonpremixed jet flames. In later studies we will utilize the drop tower facilities at NASA Glenn Research Center (GRC), but the preliminary work described in this paper was conducted using the 1.25-second drop tower located at the University of Texas at Austin. A more detailed description of these experiments can be found in Idicheria et al.

C1-Continuous relative permeability and hybrid upwind discretization of three phase flow in porous media

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, S. H.; Efendiev, Y.

2016-10-01

Three-phase flow in a reservoir model has been a major challenge in simulation studies due to slowly convergent iterations in Newton solution of nonlinear transport equations. In this paper, we examine the numerical characteristics of three-phase flow and propose a consistent, "C1-continuous discretization" (to be clarified later) of transport equations that ensures a convergent solution in finite difference approximation. First, we examine three-phase relative permeabilities that are critical in solving nonlinear transport equations. Three-phase relative permeabilities are difficult to measure in the laboratory, and they are often correlated with two-phase relative permeabilities (e.g., oil-gas and water-oil systems). Numerical convergence of non-linear transport equations entails that three-phase relative permeability correlations are a monotonically increasing function of the phase saturation and the consistency conditions of phase transitions are satisfied. The Modified Stone's Method II and the Linear Interpolation Method for three-phase relative permeability are closely examined for their mathematical properties. We show that the Linear Interpolation Method yields C1-continuous three-phase relative permeabilities for smooth solutions if the two phase relative permeabilities are monotonic and continuously differentiable. In the second part of the paper, we extend a Hybrid-Upwinding (HU) method of two-phase flow (Lee, Efendiev and Tchelepi, ADWR 82 (2015) 27-38) to three phase flow. In the HU method, the phase flux is divided into two parts based on the driving forces (in general, it can be divided into several parts): viscous and buoyancy. The viscous-driven and buoyancy-driven fluxes are upwinded differently. Specifically, the viscous flux, which is always co-current, is upwinded based on the direction of the total velocity. The pure buoyancy-induced flux is shown to be only dependent on saturation distributions and counter-current. In three-phase flow, the buoyancy effect can be expressed as a sum of two buoyancy effects from two-phase flows, i.e., oil-water and oil-gas systems. We propose an upwind scheme for the buoyancy flux term from three-phase flow as a sum of two buoyancy terms from two-phase flows. The upwind direction of the buoyancy flux in two phase flow is always fixed such that the heavier fluid goes downward and the lighter fluid goes upward. It is shown that the Implicit Hybrid-Upwinding (IHU) scheme for three-phase flow is locally conservative and produces physically-consistent numerical solutions. As in two phase flow, the primary advantage of the IHU scheme is that the flux of a fluid phase remains continuous and differentiable as the flow regime changes between co-current and counter-current conditions as a function of time, or (Newton) iterations. This is in contrast to the standard phase-potential-based upwinding scheme, in which the overall fractional-flow (flux) function is non-differentiable across the transition between co-current and counter-current flows.

Geodynamic modelling of low-buoyancy thermo-chemical plumes

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dannberg, Juliane; Sobolev, Stephan

2015-04-01

The Earth's biggest magmatic events that form Large Igneous Provinces are believed to originate from massive melting when hot mantle plumes rising from the lowermost mantle reach the base of the lithosphere. Classical models of thermal mantle plumes predict a flattening of the plume head to a disk-like structure, a kilometer-scale surface uplift just before the initiation of LIPs and thin plume tails. However, there are seismic observations and paleo-topography data that are difficult to explain with this classical approach. Here, using numerical models, we show that the issue can be resolved if major mantle plumes are thermo-chemical rather than purely thermal. It has been suggested a long time ago that subducted oceanic crust could be recycled by mantle plumes; and based on geochemical data, they may contain up to 15-20% of this recycled material in the form of dense eclogite, which drastically decreases their buoyancy and makes it depth-dependent. We perform numerical experiments in a 3D spherical shell geometry to investigate the dynamics of the plume ascent, the interaction between plume- and plate-driven flow and the dynamics of melting in a plume head. For this purpose, we use the finite-element code ASPECT, which allows for complex temperature-, pressure- and composition-dependent material properties. Moreover, our models incorporate phase transitions (including melting) with the accompanying rheological and density changes, Clapeyron slopes and latent heat effects for both peridotite and eclogite, mantle compressibility and a strong temperature- and depth-dependent viscosity. We demonstrate that despite their low buoyancy, such plumes can rise through the whole mantle causing only negligible surface uplift. Conditions for this ascent are high plume volume and moderate lower mantle subadiabaticity. While high plume buoyancy results in plumes directly advancing to the base of the lithosphere, plumes with slightly lower buoyancy pond in a depth of 300-400 km and form pools or a second layer of hot material. These structures are caused by phase transitions occurring in different depths in peridotite and eclogite; and they become asymmetric and finger-like channels begin to form when the plume gets entrained by a quickly moving overlying plate. We also show that the bulky tails of large and hot low-buoyancy plumes are stable for several tens of millions of years and that their shapes fit seismic tomography data much better than the narrow tails of thermal plumes.

Allometric scaling of lung volume and its consequences for marine turtle diving performance.

PubMed

Hochscheid, Sandra; McMahon, Clive R; Bradshaw, Corey J A; Maffucci, Fulvio; Bentivegna, Flegra; Hays, Graeme C

2007-10-01

Marine turtle lungs have multiple functions including respiration, oxygen storage and buoyancy regulation, so lung size is an important indicator of dive performance. We determined maximum lung volumes (V(L)) for 30 individuals from three species (Caretta caretta n=13; Eretmochelys imbricata n=12; Natator depressus n=5) across a range of body masses (M(b)): 0.9 to 46 kg. V(L) was 114 ml kg(-1) and increased with M(b) with a scaling factor of 0.92. Based on these values for V(L) we demonstrated that diving capacities (assessed via aerobic dive limits) of marine turtles were potentially over-estimated when the V(L)-body mass effect was not considered (by 10 to 20% for 5 to 25 kg turtles and by >20% for turtles > or =25 kg). While aerobic dive limits scale with an exponent of 0.6, an analysis of average dive durations in free-ranging chelonian marine turtles revealed that dive duration increases with a mass exponent of 0.51, although there was considerable scatter around the regression line. While this highlights the need to determine more parameters that affect the duration-body mass relationship, our results provide a reference point for calculating oxygen storage capacities and air volumes available for buoyancy control.

40 CFR 1065.690 - Buoyancy correction for PM sample media.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-07-01

... media. 1065.690 Section 1065.690 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED... Buoyancy correction for PM sample media. (a) General. Correct PM sample media for their buoyancy in air if you weigh them on a balance. The buoyancy correction depends on the sample media density, the density...

40 CFR 1065.690 - Buoyancy correction for PM sample media.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-07-01

... media. 1065.690 Section 1065.690 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED... Buoyancy correction for PM sample media. (a) General. Correct PM sample media for their buoyancy in air if you weigh them on a balance. The buoyancy correction depends on the sample media density, the density...

40 CFR 1065.690 - Buoyancy correction for PM sample media.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-07-01

... media. 1065.690 Section 1065.690 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED... Buoyancy correction for PM sample media. (a) General. Correct PM sample media for their buoyancy in air if you weigh them on a balance. The buoyancy correction depends on the sample media density, the density...

40 CFR 1065.690 - Buoyancy correction for PM sample media.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-07-01

... media. 1065.690 Section 1065.690 Protection of Environment ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY (CONTINUED... Buoyancy correction for PM sample media. (a) General. Correct PM sample media for their buoyancy in air if you weigh them on a balance. The buoyancy correction depends on the sample media density, the density...

Non-uniqueness of the point of application of the buoyancy force

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kliava, Janis; Mégel, Jacques

2010-07-01

Even though the buoyancy force (also known as the Archimedes force) has always been an important topic of academic studies in physics, its point of application has not been explicitly identified yet. We present a quantitative approach to this problem based on the concept of the hydrostatic energy, considered here for a general shape of the cross-section of a floating body and for an arbitrary angle of heel. We show that the location of the point of application of the buoyancy force essentially depends (i) on the type of motion experienced by the floating body and (ii) on the definition of this point. In a rolling/pitching motion, considerations involving the rotational moment lead to a particular dynamical point of application of the buoyancy force, and for some simple shapes of the floating body this point coincides with the well-known metacentre. On the other hand, from the work-energy relation it follows that in the rolling/pitching motion the energetical point of application of this force is rigidly connected to the centre of buoyancy; in contrast, in a vertical translation this point is rigidly connected to the centre of gravity of the body. Finally, we consider the location of the characteristic points of the floating bodies for some particular shapes of immersed cross-sections. The paper is intended for higher education level physics teachers and students.

MHD biconvective flow of Powell Eyring nanofluid over stretched surface

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Naseem, Faiza; Shafiq, Anum; Zhao, Lifeng; Naseem, Anum

2017-06-01

The present work is focused on behavioral characteristics of gyrotactic microorganisms to describe their role in heat and mass transfer in the presence of magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) forces in Powell-Eyring nanofluids. Implications concerning stretching sheet with respect to velocity, temperature, nanoparticle concentration and motile microorganism density were explored to highlight influential parameters. Aim of utilizing microorganisms was primarily to stabilize the nanoparticle suspension due to bioconvection generated by the combined effects of buoyancy forces and magnetic field. Influence of Newtonian heating was also analyzed by taking into account thermophoretic mechanism and Brownian motion effects to insinuate series solutions mediated by homotopy analysis method (HAM). Mathematical model captured the boundary layer regime that explicitly involved contemporary non linear partial differential equations converted into the ordinary differential equations. To depict nanofluid flow characteristics, pertinent parameters namely bioconvection Lewis number Lb, traditional Lewis number Le, bioconvection Péclet number Pe, buoyancy ratio parameter Nr, bioconvection Rayleigh number Rb, thermophoresis parameter Nt, Hartmann number M, Grashof number Gr, and Eckert number Ec were computed and analyzed. Results revealed evidence of hydromagnetic bioconvection for microorganism which was represented by graphs and tables. Our findings further show a significant effect of Newtonian heating over a stretching plate by examining the coefficient values of skin friction, local Nusselt number and the local density number. Comparison was made between Newtonian fluid and Powell-Eyring fluid on velocity field and temperature field. Results are compared of with contemporary studies and our findings are found in excellent agreement with these studies.

Probing student reasoning approaches through the lens of dual-process theories: A case study in buoyancy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gette, Cody R.; Kryjevskaia, Mila; Stetzer, MacKenzie R.; Heron, Paula R. L.

2018-06-01

A growing body of scholarly work indicates that student performance on physics problems stems from many factors, including relevant conceptual understanding. However, in contexts in which significant conceptual difficulties have been documented via research, it can be difficult to pinpoint and isolate such factors because students' written and interview responses rarely reveal the full richness of their conscious and, perhaps more importantly, subconscious reasoning paths. In this investigation, informed by dual-process theories of reasoning and decision making as well as the theoretical construct of accessibility, we conducted a series of experiments in order to gain greater insight into the factors impacting student performance on the "five-block problem," which has been used in the literature to probe student thinking about buoyancy. In particular, we examined both the impact of problem design (including salient features and cueing) and the impact of targeted instruction focused on density-based arguments for sinking and floating and on neutral buoyancy. The investigation found that instructional modifications designed to remove the strong intuitive appeal of the first-available response led to significantly improved performance, without improving student conceptual understanding of the requisite buoyancy concepts. As such, our findings represent an important first step in identifying systematic strategies for using theories from cognitive science to guide the development and refinement of research-based instructional materials.

New evaluation index for the retainability of a swimmer's horizontal posture.

PubMed

Watanabe, Yasunori; Wakayoshi, Kohji; Nomura, Teruo

2017-01-01

This study aims to investigate the effect of changes in buoyancy when a swimmer respires in a horizontal posture. We attempted to evaluate the levelness of swimmers' streamline posture by simultaneously measuring the lung capacity and buoyancy under water. The buoyancy was measured based on the changes in the vertical loads of the upper and lower limbs on the subjects' streamline posture under water. The horizontal x-axis as lung ventilation and the vertical y-axis as buoyancy forms a linear equation y = ax + b. The relation between hand (upper-limb) buoyancy and lung ventilation is defined as y = a1x + b1 and that between foot (lower-limb) buoyancy and lung ventilation as y = a2x + b2. Horizontal levelness was calculated as a ratio by dividing a2 by a1 using the inclination (a) values from these formulas for an underwater streamline posture. We defined this ratio as the breathing-balance (BB) ratio. Although the performance levels in the present study did not show any difference in the absolute quantity of air that humans can inhale in a streamline posture, the BB ratio was higher in a statistically significant manner in junior swimmers competing at international levels compared with the other groups of subjects (P < 0.001). This statistical difference in horizontal levelness, despite the absence of a noticeable difference in the absolute quantity of inhaled air, may be attributable to the way in which each person inhales and exhales air. Top-level junior swimmers that exhibited a high BB ratio might have inhaled in a way that would counteract the sinking of the lower limbs, for example, through abdominal respiration. When exhaling, on the other hand, they might have let out air gradually to mitigate the acceleration force involved in submerging the lower limbs.

46 CFR 160.010-5 - Buoyant apparatus with plastic foam buoyancy.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... 46 Shipping 6 2013-10-01 2013-10-01 false Buoyant apparatus with plastic foam buoyancy. 160.010-5... Vessels § 160.010-5 Buoyant apparatus with plastic foam buoyancy. (a) Buoyant apparatus with plastic foam buoyancy must have a plastic foam body with an external protective covering. The body may be reinforced as...

46 CFR 160.010-5 - Buoyant apparatus with plastic foam buoyancy.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... 46 Shipping 6 2014-10-01 2014-10-01 false Buoyant apparatus with plastic foam buoyancy. 160.010-5... Vessels § 160.010-5 Buoyant apparatus with plastic foam buoyancy. (a) Buoyant apparatus with plastic foam buoyancy must have a plastic foam body with an external protective covering. The body may be reinforced as...

46 CFR 160.010-5 - Buoyant apparatus with plastic foam buoyancy.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... 46 Shipping 6 2012-10-01 2012-10-01 false Buoyant apparatus with plastic foam buoyancy. 160.010-5... Vessels § 160.010-5 Buoyant apparatus with plastic foam buoyancy. (a) Buoyant apparatus with plastic foam buoyancy must have a plastic foam body with an external protective covering. The body may be reinforced as...

Surface tension effects on the behavior of a cavity growing, collapsing, and rebounding near a rigid wall.

PubMed

Zhang, Zhen-yu; Zhang, Hui-sheng

2004-11-01

Surface tension effects on the behavior of a pure vapor cavity or a cavity containing some noncondensible contents, which is growing, collapsing, and rebounding axisymmetrically near a rigid wall, are investigated numerically by the boundary integral method for different values of dimensionless stand-off parameter gamma, buoyancy parameter delta, and surface tension parameter beta. It is found that at the late stage of the collapse, if the resultant action of the Bjerknes force and the buoyancy force is not small, surface tension will not have significant effects on bubble behavior except that the bubble collapse time is shortened and the liquid jet becomes wider. If the resultant action of the two force is small enough, surface tension will have significant and in some cases substantial effects on bubble behavior, such as changing the direction of the liquid jet, making a new liquid jet appear, in some cases preventing the bubble from rebound before jet impact, and in other cases causing the bubble to rebound or even recollapse before jet impact. The mechanism of surface tension effects on the collapsing behavior of a cavity has been analyzed. The mechanisms of some complicated phenomena induced by surface tension effects are illustrated by analysis of the computed velocity fields and pressure contours of the liquid flow outside the bubble at different stages of the bubble evolution.

Convection, buoyancy or endolymph expansion: what is the actual mechanism responsible for the caloric response of semicircular canals?

PubMed

Valli, Paulo; Buizza, Angelo; Botta, Laura; Zucca, Giampiero; Ghezzi, Luciano; Valli, Stefano

The mechanisms underlying caloric nystagmus are still matter of debate. The original theory proposed by Barany and more recently by Pau and Limberg suggested that convective endolymphatic currents were involved. In contrast Gentine et al. suggested that the main mechanism responsible for caloric nystagmus is buoyancy due to calorization of the endolymph, without the need of continuous convective currents. Finally, other authors (Scherer and Clarke, Arai et al.) proposed that thermal expansion or contraction of the endolymph were involved. In the present study experimental conditions have been considered able to discriminate between these different models. The experiments, were carried out on isolated labyrinth preparations of the frog. Only the predictions of the model based on buoyancy were fully consistent with the experimental results whereas those provided by the other models were not.

What buoyancy really is. A generalized Archimedes' principle for sedimentation and ultracentrifugation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Piazza, Roberto; Buzzaccaro, Stefano; Secchi, Eleonora; Parola, Alberto

Particle settling is a pervasive process in nature, and centrifugation is a much versatile separation technique. Yet, the results of settling and ultracentrifugation experiments often appear to contradict the very law on which they are based: Archimedes Principle - arguably, the oldest Physical Law. The purpose of this paper is delving at the very roots of the concept of buoyancy by means of a combined experimental-theoretical study on sedimentation profiles in colloidal mixtures. Our analysis shows that the standard Archimedes' principle is only a limiting approximation, valid for mesoscopic particles settling in a molecular fluid, and we provide a general expression for the actual buoyancy force. This "Generalized Archimedes Principle" accounts for unexpected effects, such as denser particles floating on top of a lighter fluid, which in fact we observe in our experiments.

A magnetohydrodynamic theory of coronal loop transients

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Yeh, T.

1982-01-01

The physical and geometrical characteristics of solar coronal loop transients are described in an MHD model based on Archimedes' MHD buoyancy force. The theory was developed from interpretation of coronagraphic data, particularly from Skylab. The brightness of a loop is taken to indicate the electron density, and successive pictures reveal the electron enhancement in different columns. The forces which lift the loop off the sun surface are analyzed as an MHD buoyancy force affecting every mass element by imparting an inertial force necessary for heliocentrifugal motion. Thermal forces are responsible for transferring the ambient stress to the interior of the loop to begin the process. The kinematic and hydrostatic buoyancy overcome the gravitational force, and a flux rope can then curve upward, spiralling like a corkscrew with varying cross section around the unwinding solar magnetic field lines.

Simulation of nonlinear convective thixotropic liquid with Cattaneo-Christov heat flux

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zubair, M.; Waqas, M.; Hayat, T.; Ayub, M.; Alsaedi, A.

2018-03-01

In this communication we utilized a modified Fourier approach featuring thermal relaxation effect in nonlinear convective flow by a vertical exponentially stretchable surface. Temperature-dependent thermal conductivity describes the heat transfer process. Thixotropic liquid is modeled. Convergent local similar solutions by homotopic approach are obtained. Graphical results for emerging parameters of interest are analyzed. Skin friction is calculated and interpreted. Consideration of larger local buoyancy and nonlinear convection parameters yields an enhancement in velocity distribution. Temperature and thermal layer thickness are reduced for larger thermal relaxation factor.

Theory and simulation of buoyancy-driven convection around growing protein crystals in microgravity.

PubMed

Carotenuto, L; Cartwright, J H E; Castagnolo, D; Garcia Ruiz, J M; Otalora, F

2002-01-01

We present an order-of-magnitude analysis of the Navier-Stokes equations in a time-dependent, incompressible and Boussinesq formulation. The hypothesis employed of two different length scales allows one to determine the different flow regimes on the basis of the geometrical and thermodynamical parameters alone, without solving the Navier-Stokes equations. The order-of-magnitude analysis is then applied to the field of protein crystallization, and to the flow field around a crystal, where the driving forces are solutal buoyancy-driven convection, from density dependence on species concentration, and sedimentation caused by the different densities of the crystal and the protein solution. The main result of this paper is to provide predictions of the conditions in which a crystal is growing in a convective regime, rather than in the ideal diffusive state, even under the typical microgravity conditions of space platforms.

Case study of the operational usefulness of the Sharp Workstation in forecasting a mesocyclone-induced cold sector Tornado event in California. Technical memo

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Monteverdi, J.P.

1993-03-01

An illustration of the operational usefulness of the SHARP Workstation in providing supplementary guidance to forecasters in a situation in which two tornadoes occurred in California's Sacramento Valley is presented. Use of the SHARP Workstation in analyzing the initial hodograph and in producing a bogus afternoon sounding and hodograph for the Sacramento Valley indicated that buoyancy and shear were in the correct range for moderate to strong mesocyclone-induced tornadoes. Conventional wisdom would have suggested that weak funnel clouds and small hail were the chief threats in the weather pattern. However, forecasters, aware of the role of shear in inducing stormmore » rotation and of the potential for the weather pattern to be associated with favorable buoyancy and shear parameters in certain regions of California, would have been alert to the possibility of damaging and potentially life-threatening tornadoes.« less

GoAmazon2014/5 campaign points to deep-inflow approach to deep convection across scales

DOE PAGES

Schiro, Kathleen A.; Ahmed, Fiaz; Giangrande, Scott E.; ...

2018-04-17

Representations of strongly precipitating deep-convective systems in climate models are among the most important factors in their simulation. Parameterizations of these motions face the dual challenge of unclear pathways to including mesoscale organization and high sensitivity of convection to approximations of turbulent entrainment of environmental air. Ill-constrained entrainment processes can even affect global average climate sensitivity under global warming. Multiinstrument observations from the Department of Energy GoAmazon2014/5 field campaign suggest that an alternative formulation from radar-derived dominant updraft structure yields a strong relationship of precipitation to buoyancy in both mesoscale and smaller-scale convective systems. This simultaneously provides a key stepmore » toward representing the influence of mesoscale convection in climate models and sidesteps a problematic dependence on traditional entrainment rates. A substantial fraction of precipitation is associated with mesoscale convective systems (MCSs), which are currently poorly represented in climate models. Convective parameterizations are highly sensitive to the assumptions of an entraining plume model, in which high equivalent potential temperature air from the boundary layer is modified via turbulent entrainment. Here we show, using multiinstrument evidence from the Green Ocean Amazon field campaign (2014–2015; GoAmazon2014/5), that an empirically constrained weighting for inflow of environmental air based on radar wind profiler estimates of vertical velocity and mass flux yields a strong relationship between resulting buoyancy measures and precipitation statistics. This deep-inflow weighting has no free parameter for entrainment in the conventional sense, but to a leading approximation is simply a statement of the geometry of the inflow. The structure further suggests the weighting could consistently apply even for coherent inflow structures noted in field campaign studies for MCSs over tropical oceans. For radar precipitation retrievals averaged over climate model grid scales at the GoAmazon2014/5 site, the use of deep-inflow mixing yields a sharp increase in the probability and magnitude of precipitation with increasing buoyancy. Furthermore, this applies for both mesoscale and smaller-scale convection. Results from reanalysis and satellite data show that this holds more generally: Deep-inflow mixing yields a strong precipitation–buoyancy relation across the tropics. Lastly, deep-inflow mixing may thus circumvent inadequacies of current parameterizations while helping to bridge the gap toward representing mesoscale convection in climate models.« less

GoAmazon2014/5 campaign points to deep-inflow approach to deep convection across scales

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Schiro, Kathleen A.; Ahmed, Fiaz; Giangrande, Scott E.

Representations of strongly precipitating deep-convective systems in climate models are among the most important factors in their simulation. Parameterizations of these motions face the dual challenge of unclear pathways to including mesoscale organization and high sensitivity of convection to approximations of turbulent entrainment of environmental air. Ill-constrained entrainment processes can even affect global average climate sensitivity under global warming. Multiinstrument observations from the Department of Energy GoAmazon2014/5 field campaign suggest that an alternative formulation from radar-derived dominant updraft structure yields a strong relationship of precipitation to buoyancy in both mesoscale and smaller-scale convective systems. This simultaneously provides a key stepmore » toward representing the influence of mesoscale convection in climate models and sidesteps a problematic dependence on traditional entrainment rates. A substantial fraction of precipitation is associated with mesoscale convective systems (MCSs), which are currently poorly represented in climate models. Convective parameterizations are highly sensitive to the assumptions of an entraining plume model, in which high equivalent potential temperature air from the boundary layer is modified via turbulent entrainment. Here we show, using multiinstrument evidence from the Green Ocean Amazon field campaign (2014–2015; GoAmazon2014/5), that an empirically constrained weighting for inflow of environmental air based on radar wind profiler estimates of vertical velocity and mass flux yields a strong relationship between resulting buoyancy measures and precipitation statistics. This deep-inflow weighting has no free parameter for entrainment in the conventional sense, but to a leading approximation is simply a statement of the geometry of the inflow. The structure further suggests the weighting could consistently apply even for coherent inflow structures noted in field campaign studies for MCSs over tropical oceans. For radar precipitation retrievals averaged over climate model grid scales at the GoAmazon2014/5 site, the use of deep-inflow mixing yields a sharp increase in the probability and magnitude of precipitation with increasing buoyancy. Furthermore, this applies for both mesoscale and smaller-scale convection. Results from reanalysis and satellite data show that this holds more generally: Deep-inflow mixing yields a strong precipitation–buoyancy relation across the tropics. Lastly, deep-inflow mixing may thus circumvent inadequacies of current parameterizations while helping to bridge the gap toward representing mesoscale convection in climate models.« less

Role of gas vesicles and intra-colony spaces during the process of algal bloom formation.

PubMed

Zhang, Yongsheng; Zheng, Binghui; Jiang, Xia; Zheng, Hao

2013-06-01

Aggregation morphology, vertical distribution, and algal density were analyzed during the algal cell floating process in three environments. The role of gas vesicles and intra-colony spaces was distinguished by algal blooms treated with ultrasonic waves and high pressure. Results demonstrated that the two buoyancy providers jointly provide buoyancy for floating algal cells. The results were also confirmed by force analysis. In the simulation experiment, the buoyancy acting on algal cells was greater than its gravity at sample ports 2 and 3 of a columnar-cultivated cell vessel, and intra-colony spaces were not detected. In Taihu Lake, gas vesicle buoyancy was notably less than total algal cell gravity. Buoyancy provided by intra-colony spaces exceeded total algal cell gravity at the water surface, but not at other water depths. In the Daning River, total buoyancies provided by the two buoyancy providers were less than total algal cell gravity at different water depths.

Is academic buoyancy anything more than adaptive coping?

PubMed

Putwain, David W; Connors, Liz; Symes, Wendy; Douglas-Osborn, Erica

2012-05-01

Academic buoyancy refers to a positive, constructive, and adaptive response to the types of challenges and setbacks experienced in a typical and everyday academic setting. In this project we examined whether academic buoyancy explained any additional variance in test anxiety over and above that explained by coping. Two hundred and ninety-eight students in their final two years of compulsory schooling completed self-report measures of academic buoyancy, coping, and test anxiety. Results suggested that buoyancy was inversely related to test anxiety and unrelated to coping. With the exception of test-irrelevant thoughts, test anxiety was positively related to avoidance coping and social support. Test-irrelevant thoughts were inversely related to task focus, unrelated to social support, and positively related to avoidance. A hierarchical regression analysis showed that academic buoyancy explained a significant additional proportion of variance in test anxiety when the variance for coping had already been accounted for. These findings suggest that academic buoyancy can be considered as a distinct construct from that of adaptive coping.

Forces on a segregating particle

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lueptow, Richard M.; Shankar, Adithya; Fry, Alexander M.; Ottino, Julio M.; Umbanhowar, Paul B.

2017-11-01

Size segregation in flowing granular materials is not well understood at the particle level. In this study, we perform a series of 3D Discrete Element Method (DEM) simulations to measure the segregation force on a single spherical test particle tethered to a spring in the vertical direction in a shearing bed of particles with gravity acting perpendicular to the shear. The test particle is the same size or larger than the bed particles. At equilibrium, the downward spring force and test particle weight are offset by the upward buoyancy-like force and a size ratio dependent force. We find that the buoyancy-like force depends on the bed particle density and the Voronoi volume occupied by the test particle. By changing the density of the test particle with the particle size ratio such that the buoyancy force matches the test particle weight, we show that the upward size segregation force is a quadratic function of the particle size ratio. Based on this, we report an expression for the net force on a single particle as the sum of a size ratio dependent force, a buoyancy-like force, and the weight of the particle. Supported by NSF Grant CBET-1511450 and the Procter and Gamble Company.

Inherent work suit buoyancy distribution: effects on lifejacket self-righting performance.

PubMed

Barwood, Martin J; Long, Geoffrey M; Lunt, Heather; Tipton, Michael J

2014-09-01

Accidental immersion in cold water is an occupational risk. Work suits and life jackets (LJ) should work effectively in combination to keep the airway clear of the water (freeboard) and enable self-righting. We hypothesized that inherent buoyancy, in the suit or LJ, would be beneficial for enabling freeboard, but its distribution may influence LJ self-righting. Six participants consented to complete nine immersions. Suits and LJ tested were: flotation suit (FLOAT; 85 N inherent buoyancy); oilskins 1 (OS-1) and 2 (OS-2), both with no inherent buoyancy; LJs (inherent buoyancy/buoyancy after inflation/total buoyancy), LJ-1 50/150/200 N, LJ-2 0/290/290 N, LJ-3 80/190/270 N. Once dressed, the subject entered an immersion pool where uninflated freeboard, self-righting performance, and inflated freeboard were measured. Data were compared using Friedman's test to the 0.05 alpha level. All suits and LJs enabled uninflated and inflated freeboard, but differences were seen between the suits and LJs. Self-righting was achieved on 43 of 54 occasions, irrespective of suit or LJ. On all occasions that self-righting was not achieved, this occurred in an LJ that included inherent buoyancy (11/54 occasions). Of these 11 failures, 8 occurred (73% of occasions) when the FLOAT suit was being worn. LJs that included inherent buoyancy, that are certified as effective on their own, worked less effectively from the perspective of self-righting in combination with a work suit that also included inherent buoyancy. Equipment that is approved for use in the workplace should be tested in combination to ensure adequate performance in an emergency scenario.

3. WIDE ANGLE OF NEUTRAL BUOYANCY SIMULATOR (NBS) FROM WITHIN ...

Library of Congress Historic Buildings Survey, Historic Engineering Record, Historic Landscapes Survey

3. WIDE ANGLE OF NEUTRAL BUOYANCY SIMULATOR (NBS) FROM WITHIN NBS HIGHBAY DOORS. DIVE BELL IN FOREGROUND. - Marshall Space Flight Center, Neutral Buoyancy Simulator Facility, Rideout Road, Huntsville, Madison County, AL

Neutral buoyancy is optimal to minimize the cost of transport in horizontally swimming seals

PubMed Central

Sato, Katsufumi; Aoki, Kagari; Watanabe, Yuuki Y.; Miller, Patrick J. O.

2013-01-01

Flying and terrestrial animals should spend energy to move while supporting their weight against gravity. On the other hand, supported by buoyancy, aquatic animals can minimize the energy cost for supporting their body weight and neutral buoyancy has been considered advantageous for aquatic animals. However, some studies suggested that aquatic animals might use non-neutral buoyancy for gliding and thereby save energy cost for locomotion. We manipulated the body density of seals using detachable weights and floats, and compared stroke efforts of horizontally swimming seals under natural conditions using animal-borne recorders. The results indicated that seals had smaller stroke efforts to swim a given speed when they were closer to neutral buoyancy. We conclude that neutral buoyancy is likely the best body density to minimize the cost of transport in horizontal swimming by seals. PMID:23857645

Neutral buoyancy is optimal to minimize the cost of transport in horizontally swimming seals.

PubMed

Sato, Katsufumi; Aoki, Kagari; Watanabe, Yuuki Y; Miller, Patrick J O

2013-01-01

Flying and terrestrial animals should spend energy to move while supporting their weight against gravity. On the other hand, supported by buoyancy, aquatic animals can minimize the energy cost for supporting their body weight and neutral buoyancy has been considered advantageous for aquatic animals. However, some studies suggested that aquatic animals might use non-neutral buoyancy for gliding and thereby save energy cost for locomotion. We manipulated the body density of seals using detachable weights and floats, and compared stroke efforts of horizontally swimming seals under natural conditions using animal-borne recorders. The results indicated that seals had smaller stroke efforts to swim a given speed when they were closer to neutral buoyancy. We conclude that neutral buoyancy is likely the best body density to minimize the cost of transport in horizontal swimming by seals.

Variable mass diffusion effects on free convection flow past an impulsively started infinite vertical plate

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Rushi Kumar, B.; Jayakar, R.; Vijay Kumar, A. G.

2017-11-01

An exact analysis of the problem of free convection flow of a viscous incompressible chemically reacting fluid past an infinite vertical plate with the flow due to impulsive motion of the plate with Newtonian heating in the presence of thermal radiation and variable mass diffusion is performed. The resulting governing equations were tackled by Laplace transform technique. Finally the effects of pertinent flow parameters such as the radiation parameter, chemical reaction parameter, buoyancy ratio parameter, thermal Grashof number, Schmidt number, Prandtl number and time on the velocity, temperature, concentration and skin friction for both aiding and opposing flows were examined in detail when Pr=0.71(conducting air) and Pr=7.0(water).

Low-buoyancy thermochemical plumes resolve controversy of classical mantle plume concept

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dannberg, Juliane; Sobolev, Stephan V.

2015-04-01

The Earth's biggest magmatic events are believed to originate from massive melting when hot mantle plumes rising from the lowermost mantle reach the base of the lithosphere. Classical models predict large plume heads that cause kilometre-scale surface uplift, and narrow (100 km radius) plume tails that remain in the mantle after the plume head spreads below the lithosphere. However, in many cases, such uplifts and narrow plume tails are not observed. Here using numerical models, we show that the issue can be resolved if major mantle plumes contain up to 15-20% of recycled oceanic crust in a form of dense eclogite, which drastically decreases their buoyancy and makes it depth dependent. We demonstrate that, despite their low buoyancy, large enough thermochemical plumes can rise through the whole mantle causing only negligible surface uplift. Their tails are bulky (>200 km radius) and remain in the upper mantle for 100 millions of years.

A numerical study of transient heat and mass transfer in crystal growth

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Han, Samuel Bang-Moo

1987-01-01

A numerical analysis of transient heat and solute transport across a rectangular cavity is performed. Five nonlinear partial differential equations which govern the conservation of mass, momentum, energy and solute concentration related to crystal growth in solution, are simultaneously integrated by a numerical method based on the SIMPLE algorithm. Numerical results showed that the flow, temperature and solute fields are dependent on thermal and solutal Grashoff number, Prandtl number, Schmidt number and aspect ratio. The average Nusselt and Sherwood numbers evaluated at the center of the cavity decrease markedly when the solutal buoyancy force acts in the opposite direction to the thermal buoyancy force. When the solutal and thermal buoyancy forces act in the same direction, however, Sherwood number increases significantly and yet Nusselt number decreases. Overall effects of convection on the crystal growth are seen to be an enhancement of growth rate as expected but with highly nonuniform spatial growth variations.

Laminar and Turbulent Gaseous Diffusion Flames. Appendix C

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Faeth, G. M.; Urban, D. L. (Technical Monitor); Yuan, Z.-G. (Technical Monitor)

2001-01-01

Recent measurements and predictions of the properties of homogeneous (gaseous) laminar and turbulent non-premixed (diffusion) flames are discussed, emphasizing results from both ground- and space-based studies at microgravity conditions. Initial considerations show that effects of buoyancy not only complicate the interpretation of observations of diffusion flames but at times mislead when such results are applied to the non-buoyant diffusion flame conditions of greatest practical interest. This behavior motivates consideration of experiments where effects of buoyancy are minimized; therefore, methods of controlling the intrusion of buoyancy during observations of non-premixed flames are described, considering approaches suitable for both normal laboratory conditions as well as classical microgravity techniques. Studies of laminar flames at low-gravity and microgravity conditions are emphasized in view of the computational tractability of such flames for developing methods of predicting flame structure as well as the relevance of such flames to more practical turbulent flames by exploiting laminar flamelet concepts.

Latent heat effects of the major mantle phase transitions on low-angle subduction

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

van Hunen, Jeroen; van den Berg, Arie P.; Vlaar, Nico J.

2001-08-01

Very low to zero shallow dip angles are observed at several moderately young subduction zones with an active trenchward moving overriding plate. We have investigated the effects of latent heat for this situation, where mantle material is pushed through the major mantle phase transitions during shallow low-angle subduction below the overriding plate. The significance of the buoyancy forces, arising from the latent heat effects, on the dynamics of the shallowly subducting slab is examined by numerical modeling. When a 32-Ma-old slab is overridden with 2.5 cm/yr by a continent, flat subduction occurs with a 4-5 cm/yr convergence rate. When latent heat is included in the model, forced downwellings cause a thermal anomaly and consequently thermal and phase buoyancy forces. Under these circumstances, the flat slab segment subducts horizontally about 350 km further and for about 11 Ma longer than in the case without latent heat, before it breaks through the 400-km phase transition. The style of subduction strongly depends on the mantle rheology: increasing the mantle viscosity by one order of magnitude can change the style of subduction from steep to shallow. Similarly, an overriding velocity of less than 1 cm/yr leads to steep subduction, which gradually changes to flat subduction when increasing the overriding velocity. However, these model parameters do not change the aforementioned effect of the latent heat, provided that low-angle subduction occurs. In all models latent heat resulted in a substantial increase of the flat slab length by 300-400 km. Varying the olivine-spinel transition Clapeyron slope γ from 1 to 6 MPa/K reveals a roughly linear relation between γ and the horizontal length of the slab. Based on these results, we conclude that buoyancy forces due to latent heat of phase transitions play an important role in low-angle subduction below an overriding plate.

Turbulent convection in geostrophic circulation with wind and buoyancy forcing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sohail, Taimoor; Gayen, Bishakhdatta; Hogg, Andy

2017-11-01

We conduct a direct numerical simulation of geostrophic circulation forced by surface wind and buoyancy to model a circumpolar ocean. The imposed buoyancy forcing (represented by Rayleigh number) drives a zonal current and supports small-scale convection in the buoyancy destabilizing region. In addition, we observe eddy activity which transports heat southward, supporting a large amount of heat uptake. Increasing wind stress enhances the meridional buoyancy gradient, triggering more eddy activity inside the boundary layer. Therefore, heat uptake increases with higher wind stress. The majority of dissipation is confined within the surface boundary layer, while mixing is dominant inside the convective plume and the buoyancy destabilizing region of the domain. The relative strength of the mixing and dissipation in the system can be expressed by mixing efficiency. This study finds that mixing is much greater than viscous dissipation, resulting in higher values of mixing efficiency than previously used. Supported by Australian Research Council Grant DP140103706.

3-D numerical evaluation of density effects on tracer tests.

PubMed

Beinhorn, M; Dietrich, P; Kolditz, O

2005-12-01

In this paper we present numerical simulations carried out to assess the importance of density-dependent flow on tracer plume development. The scenario considered in the study is characterized by a short-term tracer injection phase into a fully penetrating well and a natural hydraulic gradient. The scenario is thought to be typical for tracer tests conducted in the field. Using a reference case as a starting point, different model parameters were changed in order to determine their importance to density effects. The study is based on a three-dimensional model domain. Results were interpreted using concentration contours and a first moment analysis. Tracer injections of 0.036 kg per meter of saturated aquifer thickness do not cause significant density effects assuming hydraulic gradients of at least 0.1%. Higher tracer input masses, as used for geoelectrical investigations, may lead to buoyancy-induced flow in the early phase of a tracer test which in turn impacts further plume development. This also holds true for shallow aquifers. Results of simulations with different tracer injection rates and durations imply that the tracer input scenario has a negligible effect on density flow. Employing model cases with different realizations of a log conductivity random field, it could be shown that small variations of hydraulic conductivity in the vicinity of the tracer injection well have a major control on the local tracer distribution but do not mask effects of buoyancy-induced flow.

The feasibility of thermal and compositional convection in Earth's inner core

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lythgoe, Karen H.; Rudge, John F.; Neufeld, Jerome A.; Deuss, Arwen

2015-05-01

Inner core convection, and the corresponding variations in grain size and alignment, has been proposed to explain the complex seismic structure of the inner core, including its anisotropy, lateral variations and the F-layer at the base of the outer core. We develop a parametrized convection model to investigate the possibility of convection in the inner core, focusing on the dominance of the plume mode of convection versus the translation mode. We investigate thermal and compositional convection separately so as to study the end-members of the system. In the thermal case the dominant mode of convection is strongly dependent on the viscosity of the inner core, the magnitude of which is poorly constrained. Furthermore recent estimates of a large core thermal conductivity result in stable thermal stratification, hindering convection. However, an unstable density stratification may arise due to the pressure dependant partition coefficient of certain light elements. We show that this unstable stratification leads to compositionally driven convection, and that inner core translation is likely to be the dominant convective mode due to the low compositional diffusivity. The style of convection resulting from a combination of both thermal and compositional effects is not easy to understand. For reasonable parameter estimates, the stabilizing thermal buoyancy is greater than the destabilizing compositional buoyancy. However we anticipate complex double diffusive processes to occur given the very different thermal and compositional diffusivities.

On the Asymptotic Regimes and the Strongly Stratified Limit of Rotating Boussinesq Equations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Babin, A.; Mahalov, A.; Nicolaenko, B.; Zhou, Y.

1997-01-01

Asymptotic regimes of geophysical dynamics are described for different Burger number limits. Rotating Boussinesq equations are analyzed in the asymptotic limit, of strong stratification in the Burger number of order one situation as well as in the asymptotic regime of strong stratification and weak rotation. It is shown that in both regimes horizontally averaged buoyancy variable is an adiabatic invariant for the full Boussinesq system. Spectral phase shift corrections to the buoyancy time scale associated with vertical shearing of this invariant are deduced. Statistical dephasing effects induced by turbulent processes on inertial-gravity waves are evidenced. The 'split' of the energy transfer of the vortical and the wave components is established in the Craya-Herring cyclic basis. As the Burger number increases from zero to infinity, we demonstrate gradual unfreezing of energy cascades for ageostrophic dynamics. The energy spectrum and the anisotropic spectral eddy viscosity are deduced with an explicit dependence on the anisotropic rotation/stratification time scale which depends on the vertical aspect ratio parameter. Intermediate asymptotic regime corresponding to strong stratification and weak rotation is analyzed where the effects of weak rotation are accounted for by an asymptotic expansion with full control (saturation) of vertical shearing. The regularizing effect of weak rotation differs from regularizations based on vertical viscosity. Two scalar prognostic equations for ageostrophic components (divergent velocity potential and geostrophic departure ) are obtained.

Rotational effect of buoyancy in frontcrawl: Does it really cause the legs to sink?

PubMed

Yanai, T

2001-02-01

The purposes of this study were to quantify the rotational effect of buoyant force (buoyant torque) during the performance of front crawl and to reexamine the mechanics of horizontal alignment of the swimmers. Three-dimensional videography was used to measure the position and orientation of the body segments of 11 competitive swimmers performing front crawl stroke at a sub-maximum sprinting speed. The dimensions of each body segment were defined mathematically to match the body segment parameters (mass, density, and centroid position) reported in the literature. The buoyant force and torque were computed for every video-field (60fields/s), assuming that the water surface followed a sine curve along the length of the swimmer. The average buoyant torque over the stroke cycle (mean=22Nm) was directed to raise the legs and lower the head, primarily because the recovery arm and a part of the head were lifted out of the water and the center of buoyancy shifted toward the feet. This finding contradicts the prevailing speculation that buoyancy only causes the legs to sink throughout the stroke cycle. On the basis of a theoretical analysis of the results, it is postulated that the buoyant torque, and perhaps the forces generated by kicks, function to counteract the torque generated by the hydrodynamic forces acting on the hands, so as to maintain the horizontal alignment of the body in front crawl.

High resolution modeling of dense water formation in the north-western Mediterranean during winter 2012-2013: Processes and budget

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Estournel, Claude; Testor, Pierre; Damien, Pierre; D'Ortenzio, Fabrizio; Marsaleix, Patrick; Conan, Pascal; Kessouri, Faycal; Durrieu de Madron, Xavier; Coppola, Laurent; Lellouche, Jean-Michel; Belamari, Sophie; Mortier, Laurent; Ulses, Caroline; Bouin, Marie-Noelle; Prieur, Louis

2016-07-01

The evolution of the stratification of the north-western Mediterranean between summer 2012 and the end of winter 2013 was simulated and compared with different sets of observations. A summer cruise and profiler observations were used to improve the initial conditions of the simulation. This improvement was crucial to simulate winter convection. Variations of some parameters involved in air - sea exchanges (wind, coefficient of transfer used in the latent heat flux formulation, and constant additive heat flux) showed that the characteristics of water masses and the volume of dense water formed during convection cannot be simply related to the time-integrated buoyancy budget over the autumn - winter period. The volume of dense water formed in winter was estimated to be about 50,000 km3 with a density anomaly larger than 29.113 kg m-3. The effect of advection and air/sea fluxes on the heat and salt budget of the convection zone was quantified during the preconditioning phase and the mixing period. Destratification of the surface layer in autumn occurs through an interaction of surface and Ekman buoyancy fluxes associated with displacements of the North Balearic front bounding the convection zone to the south. During winter convection, advection stratifies the convection zone: from December to March, the absolute value of advection represents 58 % of the effect of surface buoyancy fluxes.

New evaluation index for the retainability of a swimmer’s horizontal posture

PubMed Central

2017-01-01

This study aims to investigate the effect of changes in buoyancy when a swimmer respires in a horizontal posture. We attempted to evaluate the levelness of swimmers’ streamline posture by simultaneously measuring the lung capacity and buoyancy under water. The buoyancy was measured based on the changes in the vertical loads of the upper and lower limbs on the subjects’ streamline posture under water. The horizontal x-axis as lung ventilation and the vertical y-axis as buoyancy forms a linear equation y = ax + b. The relation between hand (upper-limb) buoyancy and lung ventilation is defined as y = a1x + b1 and that between foot (lower-limb) buoyancy and lung ventilation as y = a2x + b2. Horizontal levelness was calculated as a ratio by dividing a2 by a1 using the inclination (a) values from these formulas for an underwater streamline posture. We defined this ratio as the breathing–balance (BB) ratio. Although the performance levels in the present study did not show any difference in the absolute quantity of air that humans can inhale in a streamline posture, the BB ratio was higher in a statistically significant manner in junior swimmers competing at international levels compared with the other groups of subjects (P < 0.001). This statistical difference in horizontal levelness, despite the absence of a noticeable difference in the absolute quantity of inhaled air, may be attributable to the way in which each person inhales and exhales air. Top-level junior swimmers that exhibited a high BB ratio might have inhaled in a way that would counteract the sinking of the lower limbs, for example, through abdominal respiration. When exhaling, on the other hand, they might have let out air gradually to mitigate the acceleration force involved in submerging the lower limbs. PMID:28486565

1. NEUTRAL BUOYANCY SIMULATOR BUILDING (NBS) EXTERIOR ELEVATION LOOKING NORTH; ...

Library of Congress Historic Buildings Survey, Historic Engineering Record, Historic Landscapes Survey

1. NEUTRAL BUOYANCY SIMULATOR BUILDING (NBS) EXTERIOR ELEVATION LOOKING NORTH; TANK BUILDING TO LEFT, CONTROL ROOM ETC. TO RIGHT OF CONNECTING BAY. - Marshall Space Flight Center, Neutral Buoyancy Simulator Facility, Rideout Road, Huntsville, Madison County, AL

Fem Simulation of Triple Diffusive Natural Convection Along Inclined Plate in Porous Medium: Prescribed Surface Heat, Solute and Nanoparticles Flux

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Goyal, M.; Goyal, R.; Bhargava, R.

2017-12-01

In this paper, triple diffusive natural convection under Darcy flow over an inclined plate embedded in a porous medium saturated with a binary base fluid containing nanoparticles and two salts is studied. The model used for the nanofluid is the one which incorporates the effects of Brownian motion and thermophoresis. In addition, the thermal energy equations include regular diffusion and cross-diffusion terms. The vertical surface has the heat, mass and nanoparticle fluxes each prescribed as a power law function of the distance along the wall. The boundary layer equations are transformed into a set of ordinary differential equations with the help of group theory transformations. A wide range of parameter values are chosen to bring out the effect of buoyancy ratio, regular Lewis number and modified Dufour parameters of both salts and nanofluid parameters with varying angle of inclinations. The effects of parameters on the velocity, temperature, solutal and nanoparticles volume fraction profiles, as well as on the important parameters of heat and mass transfer, i.e., the reduced Nusselt, regular and nanofluid Sherwood numbers, are discussed. Such problems find application in extrusion of metals, polymers and ceramics, production of plastic films, insulation of wires and liquid packaging.

Surface Buoyancy Fluxes and the Strength of the Subpolar Gyre

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hogg, A. M.; Gayen, B.

2017-12-01

Midlatitude ocean gyres have long been considered to be driven by the mechanical wind stress on the ocean's surface (strictly speaking, the potential vorticity input from wind stress curl). However, surface buoyancy forcing (i.e. heating/cooling or freshening/salinification) also modifies the potential vorticity at the surface. Here, we present a simple argument to demonstrate that ocean gyres may (in principle) be driven by surface buoyancy forcing. This argument is derived in two ways: A Direct Numerical Simulation, driven purely by buoyancy forcing, which generates strong nonlinear gyers in the absence of wind stress; and A series of idealised eddy-resolving numerical ocean model simulations, in which wind stress and buoyancy flux are varied independently and together, are used to understand the relative importance of these two types of forcing. In these simulations, basin-scale gyres and western boundary currents with realistic magnitudes, remain even in the absence of mechanical forcing by surface wind stress. These results support the notion that surface buoyancy forcing can reorganise the potential vorticity in the ocean in such a way as to drive basin-scale gyres. The role of buoyancy is stronger in the subpolar gyre than in the subtropical gyre. We infer that surface buoyancy fluxes are likely to play a contributing role in governing the strength, variability and predictability of the North Atlantic subpolar gyre.

Inertial floaters in stratified turbulence

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sozza, A.; De Lillo, F.; Boffetta, G.

2018-01-01

We investigate numerically the dynamics and statistics of inertial particles transported by stratified turbulence, in the case of particle density intermediate in the average density profile of the fluid. Under these conditions, particles tend to form a thin layer around the corresponding fluid isopycnal. The thickness of the resulting layer is determined by a balance between buoyancy (which attracts the particle to the isopycnal) and inertia (which prevents them from following it exactly). By means of extensive numerical simulations, we explore the parameter space of the system and we find that in a range of parameters particles form fractal clusters within the layer.

A sharp interface immersed boundary method for vortex-induced vibration in the presence of thermal buoyancy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Garg, Hemanshul; Soti, Atul K.; Bhardwaj, Rajneesh

2018-02-01

We report the development of an in-house fluid-structure interaction solver and its application to vortex-induced vibration (VIV) of an elastically mounted cylinder in the presence of thermal buoyancy. The flow solver utilizes a sharp interface immersed boundary method, and in the present work, we extend it to account for the thermal buoyancy using Boussinesq approximation and couple it with a spring-mass system of the VIV. The one-way coupling utilizes an explicit time integration scheme and is computationally efficient. We present benchmark code verifications of the solver for natural convection, mixed convection, and VIV. In addition, we verify a coupled VIV-thermal buoyancy problem at a Reynolds number, Re = 150. We numerically demonstrate the onset of the VIV in the presence of the thermal buoyancy for an insulated cylinder at low Re. The buoyancy is induced by two parallel plates, kept in the direction of flow and symmetrically placed around the cylinder. The plates are maintained at the hot and cold temperature to the same degree relative to the ambient. In the absence of the thermal buoyancy (i.e., the plates are at ambient temperature), the VIV does not occur for Re ≤ 20 due to stable shear layers. By contrast, the thermal buoyancy induces flow instability and the vortex shedding helps us to achieve the VIV at Re ≤ 20, lower than the critical value of Re (≈21.7), reported in the literature, for a self-sustained VIV in the absence of the thermal buoyancy. The present simulations show that the lowest Re to achieve VIV in the presence of the thermal buoyancy is around Re ≈ 3, at Richardson number, Ri = 1. We examine the effect of the reduced velocity (UR), mass ratio (m), Prandtl number (Pr), Richardson number (Ri) on the displacement of the cylinder, lift coefficient, oscillation frequency, the phase difference between displacement and lift force, and wake structures. We obtain a significantly larger vibration amplitude of the cylinder over a wide range of UR as compared to that in the absence of the thermal buoyancy.

Particle and Blood Cell Dynamics in Oscillatory Flows Final Report

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Juan M. Restrepo

2008-09-01

Our aim has been to uncover fundamental aspects of the suspension and dislodgement of particles in wall-bounded oscillatory flows, in flows characterized by Reynolds numbers en- compassing the situation found in rivers and near shores (and perhaps in some industrial processes). Our research tools are computational and our coverage of parameter space fairly broad. Computational means circumvent many complications that make the measurement of the dynamics of particles in a laboratory setting an impractical task, especially on the broad range of parameter space we plan to report upon. The impact of this work on the geophysical problem of sedimentation ismore » boosted considerably by the fact that the proposed calculations can be considered ab-initio, in the sense that little to no modeling is done in generating dynamics of the particles and of the moving fluid: we use a three-dimensional Navier Stokes solver along with straightforward boundry conditions. Hence, to the extent that Navier Stokes is a model for an ideal incompressible isotropic Newtonian fluid, the calculations yield benchmark values for such things as the drag, buoyancy, and lift of particles, in a highly controlled environment. Our approach will be to make measurements of the lift, drag, and buoyancy of particles, by considering progressively more complex physical configurations and physics.« less

An analysis of the causes of compressed-gas diving fatalities in Australia from 1972-2005.

PubMed

Lippmann, John; Baddeley, Adrian; Vann, Richard; Walker, Douglas

2013-01-01

In order to investigate causative factors, root cause analysis (RCA) was applied to 351 Australian compressed-gas diving fatalities from 1972-2005. Each case was described by four sequential events (trigger, disabling agent, disabling injury, cause of death) that were assessed for frequency, trends, and dive and diver characteristics. The average age increased by 16 years, with women three years younger than men annually. For the entire 34-year period, the principal disabling injuries were asphyxia (49%), cerebral arterial gas embolism (CAGE; 25%), and cardiac (19%). There was evidence of a long-term decline in the rate of asphyxia and a long-term increase in CAGE and cardiac disabling injuries. Asphyxia was associated with rough water, buoyancy trouble, equipment trouble, and gas supply trouble. CAGE was associated with gas supply trouble and ascent trouble, while cardiac cases were associated with exertion, cardiovascular disease, and greater age. Exertion was more common in younger cardiac deaths than in older deaths. Asphyxia became less common with increasing age. Equipment-related problems were most common during the late 1980s and less so in 2005. Buoyancy-related deaths usually involved loss of buoyancy on the surface but decreased when buoyancy control devices were used. Countermeasures to reduce fatalities based on these observations will require validation by active surveillance.

Developing students’ learning achievement and experimental skills on buoyancy and the involvement of Newton’s third law through experimental sets

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chokchai, Jaewijarn; Khanti, Toedtanya; Sura, Wuttiprom

2017-09-01

The purposes of this research were: to construct packages of operations on buoyancy and the involvement of Newton’s third law, to enhance achievement score of students on buoyancy and the involvement of Newton’s third law, to enhance experimental skills on buoyancy and the involvement of Newton’s third law and to evaluate students’ attitude towards the packages of operations on buoyancy and the involvement of Newton’s third law using inquiry method. The samples were 42 grade 11 students in academic year 2016 at Hatyaiwittayalai School, Hatyai, Songkhla. The research method was one group pretest-posttest design. The research tools consisted of experimental set on buoyancy and the involvement of Newton’s third law, the learning achievement test on buoyancy and the involvement of Newton’s third law and the students’ attitude questionnaires. The experimental skills of most students was in a good level . The satisfaction of most students was in a good level. The research showed the learning achievement after instruction higher than that before instruction using experimental set at the significant level of 0.05 and the class average normalized gain is in the medium gain

On the correlation of buoyancy-influenced turbulent convective heat transfer to fluids at supercritical pressure

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Jackson, J. D.; Jiang, P. X.; Liu, B.

2012-07-01

This paper is concerned with buoyancy-influenced turbulent convective heat transfer in vertical tubes for conditions where the physical properties vary strongly with temperature as in fluids at supercritical pressure in the pseudocritical temperature region. An extended physically-based, semi-empirical model is described which has been developed to account for the extreme non-uniformity of properties which can be present in such fluids and lead to strong influences of buoyancy which cause the mean flow and turbulence fields to be modified in such a manner that has a very profound effect on heat transfer. Data for both upward and downward flow from experimentsmore » using carbon dioxide at supercritical pressure (8.80, MPa, p/pc=1.19) in a uniformly heated tube of internal diameter 2 mm and length 290 mm, obtained under conditions of strong non-uniformity of fluid properties, are being correlated and fitted using an approach based on the model. It provides a framework for describing the complex heat transfer behaviour which can be encountered in such experiments by means of an equation of simple form. Buoyancy-induced impairment and enhancement of heat transfer is successfully reproduced by the model. Similar studies are in progress using experimental data for both carbon dioxide and water from other sources. The aim is to obtain an in-depth understanding of the mechanisms by which deterioration of heat transfer might arise in sensitive applications involving supercritical pressure fluids, such as high pressure, water-cooled reactors operating above the critical pressure. (authors)« less

Numerical analysis of buoyancy effects during the dissolution and transport of oxygenated gasoline in groundwater

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Molson, J.; Mocanu, M.; Barker, J.

2008-07-01

Dissolution of oxygenated gasoline, as well as buoyancy-driven groundwater flow and transport of the multicomponent dissolved phase plumes, is simulated numerically in three dimensions. The simulations are based on a field experiment described by Mocanu (2007) in which three oxygenated gasoline sources were emplaced as nonaqueous phase liquids (NAPLs) below the water table of the shallow sand aquifer at Canadian Forces Base Borden, Ontario. The sources were composed of an ethanol-free gasoline mixture spiked with 9.8% methyl tert-butyl ether and 0.2% tert-butyl alcohol (GMT-E0), a gasoline with 10% ethanol (E10), and a source with 95% ethanol (E95). The numerical model includes dissolution of gasoline as a NAPL, density-dependent groundwater flow, advective-dispersive transport of the dissolved components, and ethanol cosolvency and degradation. Buoyancy effects in the dissolved plumes were compared under a homogeneous hydraulic conductivity field as well as with five realizations of spatially correlated random fields representing the Borden aquifer. The simulations showed that buoyancy was most significant in the E95 source plumes within the homogeneous system, having induced after 150 days a net upward displacement of the local peak concentrations for all but the least soluble component of approximately 1.5 m. The peak rise in ethanol from the GMT-E0 and E10 plumes was about 0.6 m. The results highlight the importance of shallow monitoring wells when monitoring high oxygenate fraction gasoline spills in groundwater and have implications for assessing mass fluxes and biodegradation rates.

Buoyancy compensation of juvenile chinook salmon implanted with two different size dummy transmitters

USGS Publications Warehouse

Perry, R.W.; Adams, N.S.; Rondorf, D.W.

2001-01-01

We investigated the effect of two different sizes of surgically implanted transmitters on the buoyancy compensation of juvenile chinook salmon Oncorhynchus tshawytscha. We determined buoyancy by measuring the density of fish with a filled air bladder in graded salinity baths. In addition, we examined the effect of pressure changes on buoyancy by measuring the pressure reduction (PR) at which fish became neutrally buoyant. We found no significant difference between the density of control and tagged groups, indicating that fish were able to compensate for the transmitter by filling their air bladders. However, both groups of tagged fish had significantly lower PR than control fish. Regression analysis of fish density on PR indicated that density of the tagged groups changed at a higher rate than that of the controls. As a result, tagged fish attained neutral buoyancy with less pressure reduction even though the tagged and control groups exhibited similar densities. This relation was confirmed by using Boyle's law to simulate buoyancy changes with change in depth. Although fish compensated for the transmitter, changes in depth affected the buoyancy of tagged fish more than that of untagged fish. Reduced buoyancy at depth may affect the behavior and physiology of tagged juvenile salmonids, and researchers should be aware of this potential bias in telemetry data. In addition, there was little difference in PR or the slope of the density - PR regression lines between tagged groups. This was caused by the small difference in excess mass (i.e., weight in water) of the two transmitters. Thus, although two transmitters may not weigh the same, their effects on buoyancy may be similar depending on the excess mass.

Sink fast and swim harder! Round-trip cost-of-transport for buoyant divers.

PubMed

Miller, Patrick J O; Biuw, Martin; Watanabe, Yuuki Y; Thompson, Dave; Fedak, Mike A

2012-10-15

Efficient locomotion between prey resources at depth and oxygen at the surface is crucial for breath-hold divers to maximize time spent in the foraging layer, and thereby net energy intake rates. The body density of divers, which changes with body condition, determines the apparent weight (buoyancy) of divers, which may affect round-trip cost-of-transport (COT) between the surface and depth. We evaluated alternative predictions from external-work and actuator-disc theory of how non-neutral buoyancy affects round-trip COT to depth, and the minimum COT speed for steady-state vertical transit. Not surprisingly, the models predict that one-way COT decreases (increases) when buoyancy aids (hinders) one-way transit. At extreme deviations from neutral buoyancy, gliding at terminal velocity is the minimum COT strategy in the direction aided by buoyancy. In the transit direction hindered by buoyancy, the external-work model predicted that minimum COT speeds would not change at greater deviations from neutral buoyancy, but minimum COT speeds were predicted to increase under the actuator disc model. As previously documented for grey seals, we found that vertical transit rates of 36 elephant seals increased in both directions as body density deviated from neutral buoyancy, indicating that actuator disc theory may more closely predict the power requirements of divers affected by gravity than an external work model. For both models, minor deviations from neutral buoyancy did not affect minimum COT speed or round-trip COT itself. However, at body-density extremes, both models predict that savings in the aided direction do not fully offset the increased COT imposed by the greater thrusting required in the hindered direction.

Effects of Buoyancy on Lean Premixed V-Flames Part I: Laminar and Turblent Flame Structure

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cheng, Robert K.; Bedat, Benoit; Kostiuk, Larry W.

1998-01-01

Laser schlieren and planar laser-induced fluorescence techniques have been used to investigate laminar and turbulent v-flames in +g, -g, and micro g under flow conditions that span the regimes of momentum domination (Ri < 0. 1) and buoyancy domination (Ri > 0.1). Overall flame features shown by schlieren indicate that buoyancy dominates the entire flow field for conditions close to Ri = 1. With decreasing Ri, buoyancy effects are observed only in the far-field regions. Analyses of the mean flame angles demonstrate that laminar and turbulent flames do not have similar responses to buoyancy. Difference in the laminar +g and -g flame angles decrease with Ri (i.e., increasing Re) and converge to the microgravity flame angle at the momentum limit (Ri - 0). This is consistent with the notion that the effects of buoyancy diminish with increasing flow momentum. The +g and -g turbulent flame angles, however, do not converge at Ri = 0. As shown by OH-PLIF images, the inconsistency in +g and -g turbulent flame angles is associated with the differences in flame wrinkles. Turbulent flame wrinkles evolve more slowly in +g than in -g. The difference in flame wrinkle structures, however, cannot be explained in terms of buoyancy effects on flame instability mechanisms. It seems to be associated with the field effects of buoyancy that stretches the turbulent flame brushes in +g and compresses the flame brush in -g. Flame wrinkling offers a mechanism through which the flame responds to the field effects of buoyancy despite increasing flow momentum. These observations point to the need to include both upstream and downstream contributions in theoretical analysis of flame turbulence interactions.

Developing a Learning Progression of Buoyancy to Model Conceptual Change: A Latent Class and Rule Space Model Analysis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gao, Yizhu; Zhai, Xiaoming; Andersson, Björn; Zeng, Pingfei; Xin, Tao

2018-06-01

We applied latent class analysis and the rule space model to verify the cumulative characteristic of conceptual change by developing a learning progression for buoyancy. For this study, we first abstracted seven attributes of buoyancy and then developed a hypothesized learning progression for buoyancy. A 14-item buoyancy instrument was administered to 1089 8th grade students to verify and refine the learning progression. The results suggest four levels of progression during conceptual change when 8th grade students understand buoyancy. Students at level 0 can only master Density. When students progress to level 1, they can grasp Direction, Identification, Submerged volume, and Relative density on the basis of the prior level. Then, students gradually master Archimedes' theory as they reach level 2. The most advanced students can further grasp Relation with motion and arrive at level 3. In addition, this four-level learning progression can be accounted for by the Qualitative-Quantitative-Integrative explanatory model.

Buoyancy-Marangoni convection in confined volatile binary fluids subject to a horizontal temperature gradient

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Qin, Tongran; Grigoriev, Roman

2017-11-01

We consider convection in a layer of binary fluid with free surface subject to a horizontal temperature gradient in the presence of noncondensable gases, which is driven by a combination of three different forces: buoyancy, thermocapillarity, and solutocapillarity. Unlike buoyancy, both thermo- and solutocapillary stresses depend sensitively on the local phase equilibrium at the liquid-gas interface. In particular, thermocapillarity associated with the interfacial temperature gradient is controlled by the vapors' concentration along the interface, and solutocapillarity associated with the interfacial concentration gradient is controlled by differential phase change of two components of the liquid, which is strongly influenced by the presence of noncondensables. Therefore, flows in both phases, phase change, and effect of noncondensables all have to be considered. Numerical simulations based on a comprehensive model taking these effects into account show qualitative agreement with recent experiments which identified a number of flow regimes at various compositions of both phases. In particular,we find that the composition of both the gas and liquid phase have a significant effect on the observed convection patterns; this dependence can be understood using a simple analytical model. This material is based upon work supported by the National Science Foundation under Grant No. 1511470.

Onshore Wind Stress and Buoyancy Flux Observed on a Dissipative Mediterranean Beach

DTIC Science & Technology

2015-12-01

a climatologically Mediterranean coastline to explore the wind stress and buoyancy flux. An eddy covariance system was deployed in the intertidal... climatologically Mediterranean coastline to explore the wind stress and buoyancy flux. An eddy covariance system was deployed in the intertidal zone

Buoyancy and shear characteristics of hurricane-tornado environments

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Mccaul, Eugene W., Jr.

1991-01-01

This study presents detailed composite profiles of temperature, moisture, and wind constructed for tornado environments in tropical cyclones that affected the U.S. between 1948 and 1986. Winds are composited in components radial and tangential to the tropical cyclone center at observation time. Guided by observed patterns of tornado occurrence, composites are constructed for a variety of different stratifications of the data, including proximity to tornadoes, position relative to the cyclone center, time of day, time after cyclone landfall, cyclone translation speed, and landfall location. The composites are also compared to composite soundings from Great Plains tornado environments. A variety of sounding parameters are examined to see which are most closely related to the tornado distribution patterns. Lower-tropospheric vertical shears are found to be stronger in the tropical cyclone tornado environments than on the Great Plains. Buoyancy for the tropical cyclone tornado cases is much smaller than that seen with Great Plains tornado events and exhibits a weak negative correlation with tornado outbreak severity.

Low-Reynolds-number swimming at pycnoclines.

PubMed

Doostmohammadi, Amin; Stocker, Roman; Ardekani, Arezoo M

2012-03-06

Microorganisms play pivotal functions in the trophic dynamics and biogeochemistry of aquatic ecosystems. Their concentrations and activities often peak at localized hotspots, an important example of which are pycnoclines, where water density increases sharply with depth due to gradients in temperature or salinity. At pycnoclines organisms are exposed to different environmental conditions compared to the bulk water column, including reduced turbulence, slow mass transfer, and high particle and predator concentrations. Here we show that, at an even more fundamental level, the density stratification itself can affect microbial ecology at pycnoclines, by quenching the flow signature, increasing the energetic expenditure, and stifling the nutrient uptake of motile organisms. We demonstrate this through numerical simulations of an archetypal low-Reynolds-number swimmer, the "squirmer." We identify the Richardson number--the ratio of buoyancy forces to viscous forces--as the fundamental parameter that quantifies the effects of stratification. These results demonstrate an unexpected effect of buoyancy on low-Reynolds-number swimming, potentially affecting a broad range of abundant organisms living at pycnoclines in oceans and lakes.

Motion analysis and trials of the deep sea hybrid underwater glider Petrel-II

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Fang; Wang, Yan-hui; Wu, Zhi-liang; Wang, Shu-xin

2017-03-01

A hybrid underwater glider Petrel-II has been developed and field tested. It is equipped with an active buoyancy unit and a compact propeller unit. Its working modes have been expanded to buoyancy driven gliding and propeller driven level-flight, which can make the glider work in strong currents, as well as many other complicated ocean environments. Its maximal gliding speed reaches 1 knot and the propelling speed is up to 3 knots. In this paper, a 3D dynamic model of Petrel-II is derived using linear momentum and angular momentum equations. According to the dynamic model, the spiral motion in the underwater space is simulated for the gliding mode. Similarly the cycle motion on water surface and the depth-keeping motion underwater are simulated for the level-flight mode. These simulations are important to the performance analysis and parameter optimization for the Petrel-II underwater glider. The simulation results show a good agreement with field trials.

Influence of the variable thermophysical properties on the turbulent buoyancy-driven airflow inside open square cavities

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zamora, Blas; Kaiser, Antonio S.

2012-01-01

The effects of the air variable properties (density, viscosity and thermal conductivity) on the buoyancy-driven flows established in open square cavities are investigated, as well as the influence of the stated boundary conditions at open edges and the employed differencing scheme. Two-dimensional, laminar, transitional and turbulent simulations are obtained, considering both uniform wall temperature and uniform heat flux heating conditions. In transitional and turbulent cases, the low-Reynolds k - ω turbulence model is employed. The average Nusselt number and the dimensionless mass-flow rate have been obtained for a wide and not yet covered range of the Rayleigh number varying from 103 to 1016. The results obtained taking into account variable properties effects are compared with those calculated assuming constant properties and the Boussinesq approximation. For uniform heat flux heating, a correlation for the critical heating parameter above which the burnout phenomenon can be obtained is presented, not reported in previous works. The effects of variable properties on the flow patterns are analyzed.

Validity of thermally-driven small-scale ventilated filling box models

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Partridge, Jamie L.; Linden, P. F.

2013-11-01

The majority of previous work studying building ventilation flows at laboratory scale have used saline plumes in water. The production of buoyancy forces using salinity variations in water allows dynamic similarity between the small-scale models and the full-scale flows. However, in some situations, such as including the effects of non-adiabatic boundaries, the use of a thermal plume is desirable. The efficacy of using temperature differences to produce buoyancy-driven flows representing natural ventilation of a building in a small-scale model is examined here, with comparison between previous theoretical and new, heat-based, experiments.

A Lot of Good Physics in the Cartesian Diver

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

De Luca, Roberto; Ganci, Salvatore

2011-01-01

The Cartesian diver experiment certainly occupies a place of honour in old physics textbooks as a vivid demonstration of Archimedes' buoyancy. The original experiment, as described in old textbooks, shows Archimedes buoyancy qualitatively: when the increased weight of the diver is not counterbalanced by Archimedes' buoyancy, the diver sinks. When…

Physical trade-offs shape the evolution of buoyancy control in sharks.

PubMed

Gleiss, Adrian C; Potvin, Jean; Goldbogen, Jeremy A

2017-11-15

Buoyancy control is a fundamental aspect of aquatic life that has major implications for locomotor performance and ecological niche. Unlike terrestrial animals, the densities of aquatic animals are similar to the supporting fluid, thus even small changes in body density may have profound effects on locomotion. Here, we analysed the body composition (lipid versus lean tissue) of 32 shark species to study the evolution of buoyancy. Our comparative phylogenetic analyses indicate that although lean tissue displays minor positive allometry, liver volume exhibits pronounced positive allometry, suggesting that larger sharks evolved bulkier body compositions by adding lipid tissue to lean tissue rather than substituting lean for lipid tissue, particularly in the liver. We revealed a continuum of buoyancy control strategies that ranged from more buoyant sharks with larger livers in deeper ecosystems to relatively denser sharks with small livers in epipelagic habitats. Across this eco-morphological spectrum, our hydrodynamic modelling suggests that neutral buoyancy yields lower drag and more efficient steady swimming, whereas negative buoyancy may be more efficient during accelerated movements. The evolution of buoyancy control in sharks suggests that ecological and physiological factors mediate the selective pressures acting on these traits along two major gradients, body size and habitat depth. © 2017 The Author(s).

Combined effects of oil exposure, temperature and ultraviolet radiation on buoyancy and oxygen consumption of embryonic mahi-mahi, Coryphaena hippurus.

PubMed

Pasparakis, Christina; Sweet, Lauren E; Stieglitz, John D; Benetti, Daniel; Casente, Conrad T; Roberts, Aaron P; Grosell, Martin

2017-10-01

The Deepwater Horizon oil spill occurred in the summer of 2010 and coincided with the spawning window of the ecologically and economically important pelagic fish mahi-mahi (Coryphaena hippurus). During summer months, early life stage mahi-mahi were likely also exposed to other naturally occurring stressors such as increased temperature and ultraviolet radiation (UV). Previous research has shown that co-exposure to oil and additional natural stressors can affect the timing and duration of negative buoyancy in mahi-mahi embryos. The current study aimed to elucidate the factors affecting the onset of negative buoyancy and to also explore possible mechanisms behind buoyancy change. Embryos co-exposed to oil and/or increased temperature and UV radiation displayed early onset of negative buoyancy with concurrent increases in oxygen consumption and sinking rates, which are normally only seen during the period directly preceding hatch. Results also suggest a behavioral response in which embryos avoid UV radiation by sinking down the water column but reestablish positive buoyancy once the UV radiation is removed. These findings imply that embryos can dynamically change their position in the water column in response to external cues and thus may have much greater control over buoyancy than previously thought. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Buoyancy forcing and the MOC: insights from experiments, simulations and global models

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

White, B. L.; Passaggia, P. Y.; Zemskova, V.

2017-12-01

The driving forces behind the Meridional Overturning Circulation (MOC) have been widely debated, with wind-driven upwelling, surface buoyancy fluxes due to heating/cooling/freshwater input, and vertical diffusion due to turbulent mixing all thought to play significant roles. To explore the specific role of buoyancy forcing we present results from experiments and simulations of Horizontal Convection (HC), where a circulation is driven by differential buoyancy forcing applied along a horizontal surface. We interpret these results using energy budgets based on the local Available Potential Energy framework introduced in [Scotti and White, J. Fluid Mech., 2014]. We first describe HC experiments driven by the diffusion of salt in water across membranes localized at the surface, at Schmidt numbers {Sc}≈ 610 and Rayleigh numbers in the range 1012 < Ra=Δ b L3/(ν κ ) < 1017, where ν is the kinematic viscosity of water, κ is the diffusion coefficient of salt, L=[.5,2,5]m is the length of the different tanks and Δ b=g(ρ salt}-ρ {fresh}/ρ_{fresh is the reduced gravity difference. We show that the scaling follows a Nu ˜ Ra1/4 type scaling recently theorized by Shishkina et; al. (2016). We then present numerical results for rotating horizontal convection with a zonally re-entrant channel to represent the Southern Ocean branch of the MOC. While the zonal wind stress profile is important to the spatial pattern of the circulation, perhaps surprisingly, the energy budget shows only a weak dependence on the magnitude of the wind input, suggesting that surface APE generation by buoyancy forcing is dominant in driving the overturning circulation.

Buoyancy and blockage effects on transient laminar opposing mixed convection heat transfer from two horizontal confined isothermal cylinder in tandem

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Martínez-Suástegui, Lorenzo; Salcedo, Erick; Cajas, Juan; Treviño, César

2015-11-01

Transient mixed convection in a laminar cross-flow from two isothermal cylinders in tandem arrangement confined inside a vertical channel is studied numerically using the vorticity-stream function formulation of the unsteady two-dimensional Navier-Stokes and energy equations. Numerical experiments are performed for a Reynolds number based on cylinder diameter of Re = 200, Prandtl number of Pr = 7, blockage ratio of D/H = 0.2, a pitch-to-diameter ratio of L/D = 2, and several values of buoyancy strength or Richardson number Ri = Gr/Re2. The results reported herein demonstrate how the wall confinement, interference effects and opposing buoyancy affect the flow structure and heat transfer characteristics of the cylinder array. This research was supported by the Consejo Nacional de Ciencia y Tecnología (CONACYT), Grant number 167474 and by the Secretaría de Investigación y Posgrado del IPN, Grant number SIP 20141309.

Development and validation of a turbulent-mix model for variable-density and compressible flows.

PubMed

Banerjee, Arindam; Gore, Robert A; Andrews, Malcolm J

2010-10-01

The modeling of buoyancy driven turbulent flows is considered in conjunction with an advanced statistical turbulence model referred to as the BHR (Besnard-Harlow-Rauenzahn) k-S-a model. The BHR k-S-a model is focused on variable-density and compressible flows such as Rayleigh-Taylor (RT), Richtmyer-Meshkov (RM), and Kelvin-Helmholtz (KH) driven mixing. The BHR k-S-a turbulence mix model has been implemented in the RAGE hydro-code, and model constants are evaluated based on analytical self-similar solutions of the model equations. The results are then compared with a large test database available from experiments and direct numerical simulations (DNS) of RT, RM, and KH driven mixing. Furthermore, we describe research to understand how the BHR k-S-a turbulence model operates over a range of moderate to high Reynolds number buoyancy driven flows, with a goal of placing the modeling of buoyancy driven turbulent flows at the same level of development as that of single phase shear flows.

Low-buoyancy thermochemical plumes resolve controversy of classical mantle plume concept

PubMed Central

Dannberg, Juliane; Sobolev, Stephan V.

2015-01-01

The Earth's biggest magmatic events are believed to originate from massive melting when hot mantle plumes rising from the lowermost mantle reach the base of the lithosphere. Classical models predict large plume heads that cause kilometre-scale surface uplift, and narrow (100 km radius) plume tails that remain in the mantle after the plume head spreads below the lithosphere. However, in many cases, such uplifts and narrow plume tails are not observed. Here using numerical models, we show that the issue can be resolved if major mantle plumes contain up to 15–20% of recycled oceanic crust in a form of dense eclogite, which drastically decreases their buoyancy and makes it depth dependent. We demonstrate that, despite their low buoyancy, large enough thermochemical plumes can rise through the whole mantle causing only negligible surface uplift. Their tails are bulky (>200 km radius) and remain in the upper mantle for 100 millions of years. PMID:25907970

A Quantitative Investigation of Entrainment and Detrainment in Numerically Simulated Convective Clouds. Pt. 2; Simulations of Cumulonimbus Clouds

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cohen, Charles

1998-01-01

Deep cumulonimbus clouds are simulated using a model that makes accurate diagnoses of entrainment and detrainment rates and of the properties of entrained and detrained air. Clouds generated by a variety of initial thermodynamic soundings are compared. In the simulations, updraft entrainment rates are large near and above cloud base, through the entire depth of the conditionally unstable layer. Stronger updrafts in a more unstable environment are better able to entrain relatively undisturbed environmental air, while weaker updrafts can entrain only air that has been modified by the clouds. When the maximum buoyancy is large, the updraft includes parcels with a wide range of buoyancies, while weaker clouds are more horizontally uniform. Strong downdrafts originate from levels at which updrafts detrain, and their mass flux depends on the mass flux of the updraft. The magnitude of mixing between cloud and environment, not the entrainment rate, varies inversely with the cloud radius. How much of the mixed air is entrained depends on the buoyancy.

A laboratory model of planetary and stellar convection

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hart, J. E.; Toomre, J.; Deane, A. E.; Hurlburt, N. E.; Glatzmaier, G. A.; Fichtl, G. H.; Leslie, F.; Fowlis, W. W.; Gilman, P. A.

1987-01-01

Experiments on thermal convection in a rotating, differentially-heated spherical shell with a radial buoyancy force were conducted in an orbiting microgravity laboratory. A variety of convective structures, or planforms, were observed depending on the magnitude of the rotation and the nature of the imposed heating distribution. The results are in agreement with numerical simulations that can be conducted at modest parameter values, and suggest possible regimes of motion in rotating planets and stars.

Drag, but not buoyancy, affects swim speed in captive Steller sea lions

PubMed Central

Suzuki, Ippei; Sato, Katsufumi; Fahlman, Andreas; Naito, Yasuhiko; Miyazaki, Nobuyuki; Trites, Andrew W.

2014-01-01

ABSTRACT Swimming at an optimal speed is critical for breath-hold divers seeking to maximize the time they can spend foraging underwater. Theoretical studies have predicted that the optimal swim speed for an animal while transiting to and from depth is independent of buoyancy, but is dependent on drag and metabolic rate. However, this prediction has never been experimentally tested. Our study assessed the effects of buoyancy and drag on the swim speed of three captive Steller sea lions (Eumetopias jubatus) that made 186 dives. Our study animals were trained to dive to feed at fixed depths (10–50 m) under artificially controlled buoyancy and drag conditions. Buoyancy and drag were manipulated using a pair of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) tubes attached to harnesses worn by the sea lions, and buoyancy conditions were designed to fall within the natural range of wild animals (∼12–26% subcutaneous fat). Drag conditions were changed with and without the PVC tubes, and swim speeds were recorded and compared during descent and ascent phases using an accelerometer attached to the harnesses. Generalized linear mixed-effect models with the animal as the random variable and five explanatory variables (body mass, buoyancy, dive depth, dive phase, and drag) showed that swim speed was best predicted by two variables, drag and dive phase (AIC = −139). Consistent with a previous theoretical prediction, the results of our study suggest that the optimal swim speed of Steller sea lions is a function of drag, and is independent of dive depth and buoyancy. PMID:24771620

Mixed convection flow of couple stress nanofluid over oscillatory stretching sheet with heat absorption/generation effects

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Khan, Sami Ullah; Shehzad, Sabir Ali; Rauf, Amar; Ali, Nasir

2018-03-01

The aim of this article is to highlight the unsteady mixed convective couple stress nanoliquid flow passed through stretching surface. The flow is generated due to periodic oscillations of sheet. An appropriate set of dimensionless variables are used to reduce the independent variables in governing equations arising from mathematical modeling. An analytical solution has been computed by employing the technique of homotopy method. The outcomes of various sundry parameters like couple stress parameter, the ratio of angular velocity to stretching rate, thermophoresis parameter, Hartmann number, Prandtl number, heat source/sink parameter, Schmidt number described graphically and in tabular form. It is observed that the velocity profile increases by increasing mixed convection parameter and concentration buoyancy parameter. The temperature enhances for larger values of Hartmann number and Brownian. The concentration profile increases by increasing thermophoresis parameter. Results show that wall shear stress increases by increasing couple stress parameter and ratio of oscillating frequency to stretching rate.

A diapycnal diffusivity model for stratified environmental flows

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bouffard, Damien; Boegman, Leon

2013-06-01

The vertical diffusivity of density, Kρ, regulates ocean circulation, climate and coastal water quality. Kρ is difficult to measure and model in these stratified turbulent flows, resulting in the need for the development of Kρ parameterizations from more readily measurable flow quantities. Typically, Kρ is parameterized from turbulent temperature fluctuations using the Osborn-Cox model or from the buoyancy frequency, N, kinematic viscosity, ν, and the rate of dissipation of turbulent kinetic energy, ɛ, using the Osborn model. More recently, Shih et al. (2005, J. Fluid Mech. 525: 193-214) proposed a laboratory scale parameterization for Kρ, at Prandtl number (ratio of the viscosity over the molecular diffusivity) Pr = 0.7, in terms of the turbulence intensity parameter, Re=ɛ/(νN), which is the ratio between the destabilizing effect of turbulence to the stabilizing effects of stratification and viscosity. In the present study, we extend the SKIF parameterization, against extensive sets of published data, over 0.7 < Pr < 700 and validate it at field scale. Our results show that the SKIF model must be modified to include a new Buoyancy-controlled mixing regime, between the Molecular and Transitional regimes, where Kρ is captured using the molecular diffusivity and Osborn model, respectively. The Buoyancy-controlled regime occurs over 10Pr

46 CFR 170.245 - Foam flotation material.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... submerged to its margin line. (4) The effective buoyancy at the end of the submergence test must be used as the buoyancy credit; however, in no case will a credit greater than 55 lbs per cubic foot (881... accommodate the buoyancy of the foam. (6) Piping and cables must not pass through foamed spaces unless they...

46 CFR 179.240 - Foam flotation material.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... accommodate the buoyancy of the foam; (5) Piping and cables must not pass through foamed spaces unless they... submerged to its bulkhead deck; (8) The effective buoyancy of the foam must be determined at the end of the submergence test required by paragraph (b)(7) of this section. The effective buoyancy or 881 kilograms per...

46 CFR 170.245 - Foam flotation material.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2012 CFR

2012-10-01

... submerged to its margin line. (4) The effective buoyancy at the end of the submergence test must be used as the buoyancy credit; however, in no case will a credit greater than 55 lbs per cubic foot (881... accommodate the buoyancy of the foam. (6) Piping and cables must not pass through foamed spaces unless they...

46 CFR 179.240 - Foam flotation material.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... accommodate the buoyancy of the foam; (5) Piping and cables must not pass through foamed spaces unless they... submerged to its bulkhead deck; (8) The effective buoyancy of the foam must be determined at the end of the submergence test required by paragraph (b)(7) of this section. The effective buoyancy or 881 kilograms per...

46 CFR 179.240 - Foam flotation material.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2014 CFR

2014-10-01

... accommodate the buoyancy of the foam; (5) Piping and cables must not pass through foamed spaces unless they... submerged to its bulkhead deck; (8) The effective buoyancy of the foam must be determined at the end of the submergence test required by paragraph (b)(7) of this section. The effective buoyancy or 881 kilograms per...

46 CFR 170.245 - Foam flotation material.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2013 CFR

2013-10-01

... submerged to its margin line. (4) The effective buoyancy at the end of the submergence test must be used as the buoyancy credit; however, in no case will a credit greater than 55 lbs per cubic foot (881... accommodate the buoyancy of the foam. (6) Piping and cables must not pass through foamed spaces unless they...

The Role of Assessment Feedback in Developing Academic Buoyancy

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

ahmed Shafi, Adeela; Hatley, Jenny; Middleton, Tristan; Millican, Richard; Templeton, Sian

2018-01-01

This research focuses on the everyday challenge in academic learning of assessment, and argues that academic buoyancy is a key factor in academic success. To scaffold students' learning and effectively support academic buoyancy, there is arguably a need for a better understanding of: (i) what students find most and least useful in their assessment…

Effect of bioadhesion on initial in vitro buoyancy of effervescent floating matrix tablets of ciprofloxacin HCL

PubMed Central

Negi, Jeetendra Singh; Trivedi, Abhinav; Khanduri, Praveen; Negi, Vandana; Kasliwal, Nikhil

2011-01-01

The purpose of this study was to investigate effect of bioadhesion on the initial in vitro buoyancy behaviour of effervescent matrix tablets of ciprofloxacin HCl (CIPRO). Tablets were prepared by direct compression using HPMC K4M and Carbopol 971P as hydrophilic-controlled release polymers, sodium bicarbonate (NaHCO3) as gas-generating agent, polyplasdone XL, Explotab and Ac-Di-Sol as swelling agents. Tablets were evaluated for normal and modified initial in vitro floating behavior, floating duration, swelling behavior and in vitro drug release studies. A modified buoyancy lag time for tablets was determined in order to include the effect of bioadhesion on initial buoyancy. The initial buoyancy was found depended on bioadhesion ability of tablets. The lowest modified buoyancy lag time of 20 seconds was obtained for Formulation F7 having both NaHCO3 and polyplasdone XL. The floating duration was also found dependent on concentration of NaHCO3 and swelling agents. The drug release of F7 was also sustained up to 12-hr duration with anomalous drug transport mechanism. PMID:22171304

Magnetic Control of Solutal Buoyancy Driven Convection

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ramachandran, N.; Leslie, F. W.

2003-01-01

Volumetric forces resulting from local density variations and gravitational acceleration cause buoyancy induced convective motion in melts and solutions. Solutal buoyancy is a result of concentration differences in an otherwise isothermal fluid. If the fluid also exhibits variations in magnetic susceptibility with concentration then convection control by external magnetic fields can be hypothesized. Magnetic control of thermal buoyancy induced convection in ferrofluids (dispersions of ferromagnetic particles in a carrier fluid) and paramagnetic fluids have been demonstrated. Here we show the nature of magnetic control of solutal buoyancy driven convection of a paramagnetic fluid, an aqueous solution of Manganese Chloride hydrate. We predict the critical magnetic field required for balancing gravitational solutal buoyancy driven convection and validate it through a simple experiment. We demonstrate that gravity driven flow can be completely reversed by a magnetic field but the exact cancellation of the flow is not possible. This is because the phenomenon is unstable. The technique can be applied to crystal growth processes in order to reduce convection and to heat exchanger devices for enhancing convection. The method can also be applied to impose a desired g-level in reduced gravity applications.

Numerical simulation of buoyancy peristaltic flow of Johnson-Segalman nanofluid in an inclined channel

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hayat, T.; Ayub, Sadia; Alsaedi, Ahmed; Ahmad, Bashir

2018-06-01

This study addresses mixed convection on peristaltic flow in an inclined channel. The relevant flow problem is developed for MHD Johnson-Segalman nanofluid. Hall current and thermal radiation are discussed. Channel boundaries are compliant in nature. Slip effects for velocity, temperature and concentration are examined. Long wavelength concept is employed. Variations for prominent parameters in velocity, temperature, concentration, heat transfer coefficient and streamlines are obtained via built-in numerical approach. Velocity shows significant decline for larger local temperature Grashof number. Heat transfer slows down for increasing thermophoresis and thermal slip parameters. Increase in bolus is reported for higher Weissenberg number.

Abstracts of the Annual Meeting of the Society of Engineering Science, Incorporated (20th) Held at Newark, Delaware on August 22, 23 and 24, 1983.

DTIC Science & Technology

1983-09-01

0toY/ 4 .l51.21 PlC/ S TIME=4.00 SEC Fig. 2 Shape of the weld and velocity field for combined buoyancy, electromagnetically and surface tension driven...Re and S can he grouped into one parameter--their product. Numerical solution. using the program SOLA by I .r 1. AMS-1 7 Hirt’s [8), is obtained for ...two different Prandtl number 0.1 and 0.02. while the remaining parameters are tile same for both cases, namely. S = 55,000. Re = 12.5, and T = 0.05

MULTICOMPONENT THEORY OF BUOYANCY INSTABILITIES IN ASTROPHYSICAL PLASMA OBJECTS: THE CASE OF MAGNETIC FIELD PERPENDICULAR TO GRAVITY

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Nekrasov, Anatoly K.; Shadmehri, Mohsen, E-mail: anatoli.nekrassov@t-online.d, E-mail: mshadmehri@thphys.nuim.i

2010-12-01

We develop a general theory of buoyancy instabilities in the electron-ion plasma with the electron heat flux based not upon magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) equations, but using a multicomponent plasma approach in which the momentum equation is solved for each species. We investigate the geometry in which the background magnetic field is perpendicular to the gravity and stratification. General expressions for the perturbed velocities are given without any simplifications. Collisions between electrons and ions are taken into account in the momentum equations in a general form, permitting us to consider both weakly and strongly collisional objects. However, the electron heat flux ismore » assumed to be directed along the magnetic field, which implies a weakly collisional case. Using simplifications justified for an investigation of buoyancy instabilities with electron thermal flux, we derive simple dispersion relations for both collisionless and collisional cases for arbitrary directions of the wave vector. Our dispersion relations considerably differ from that obtained in the MHD framework and conditions of instability are similar to Schwarzschild's criterion. This difference is connected with simplified assumptions used in the MHD analysis of buoyancy instabilities and with the role of the longitudinal electric field perturbation which is not captured by the ideal MHD equations. The results obtained can be applied to clusters of galaxies and other astrophysical objects.« less

Swimming gaits, passive drag and buoyancy of diving sperm whales Physeter macrocephalus.

PubMed

Miller, Patrick J O; Johnson, Mark P; Tyack, Peter L; Terray, Eugene A

2004-05-01

Drag and buoyancy are two primary external forces acting on diving marine mammals. The strength of these forces modulates the energetic cost of movement and may influence swimming style (gait). Here we use a high-resolution digital tag to record depth, 3-D orientation, and sounds heard and produced by 23 deep-diving sperm whales in the Ligurian Sea and Gulf of Mexico. Periods of active thrusting versus gliding were identified through analysis of oscillations measured by a 3-axis accelerometer. Accelerations during 382 ascent glides of five whales (which made two or more steep ascents and for which we obtained a measurement of length) were strongly affected by depth and speed at Reynold's numbers of 1.4-2.8x10(7). The accelerations fit a model of drag, air buoyancy and tissue buoyancy forces with an r(2) of 99.1-99.8% for each whale. The model provided estimates (mean +/- S.D.) of the drag coefficient (0.00306+/-0.00015), air carried from the surface (26.4+/-3.9 l kg(-3) mass), and tissue density (1030+/-0.8 kg m(-3)) of these five animals. The model predicts strong positive buoyancy forces in the top 100 m of the water column, decreasing to near neutral buoyancy at 250-850 m. Mean descent speeds (1.45+/-0.19 m s(-1)) were slower than ascent speeds (1.63+/-0.22 m s(-1)), even though sperm whales stroked steadily (glides 5.3+/-6.3%) throughout descents and employed predominantly stroke-and-glide swimming (glides 37.7+/-16.4%) during ascents. Whales glided more during portions of dives when buoyancy aided their movement, and whales that glided more during ascent glided less during descent (and vice versa), supporting the hypothesis that buoyancy influences behavioural swimming decisions. One whale rested at approximately 10 m depth for more than 10 min without fluking, regulating its buoyancy by releasing air bubbles.

Field Effects of Buoyancy on Lean Premixed Turbulent Flames

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cheng, R. K.; Johnson, M. R.; Greenberg, P. S.; Wernet, M. P.

2003-01-01

The study of field effects of buoyancy on premixed turbulent flames is directed towards the advancement of turbulent combustion theory and the development of cleaner combustion technologies. Turbulent combustion is considered the most important unsolved problem in combustion science and laboratory studies of turbulence flame processes are vital to theoretical development. Although buoyancy is dominant in laboratory flames, most combustion models are not yet capable to consider buoyancy effects. This inconsistency has impeded the validation of theories and numerical simulations with experiments. Conversely, the understanding of buoyancy effects is far too limited to help develop buoyant flame models. Our research is also relevant to combustion technology because lean premixed combustion is a proven method to reduce the formation of oxides of nitrogen (NOx). In industrial lean premixed combustion systems, their operating conditions make them susceptible to buoyancy thus affecting heat distribution, emissions, stability, flashback and blowoff. But little knowledge is available to guide combustion engineers as to how to avoid or overcome these problems. Our hypothesis is that through its influence on the mean pressure field, buoyancy has direct and indirect effects on local flame/turbulence interactions. Although buoyancy acts on the hot products in the farfield the effect is also felt in the nearfield region upstream of the flame. These changes also influence the generation and dissipation of turbulent kinetic energy inside the flame brush and throughout the flowfield. Moreover, the plume of an open flame is unstable and the periodic fluctuations make additional contributions to flame front dynamics in the farfield. Therefore, processes such as flame wrinkling, flow acceleration due to heat release and flame- generated vorticity are all affected. Other global flame properties (e.g. flame stabilization limits and flame speed) may all be coupled to buoyancy. This problem poses major challenges to combustion modeling due to its need for a computation domain extending into the farfield and full specifications of upstream, wall and downstream boundary conditions.

Holographic Interferometry and Laminar Jet Diffusion Flames in the Presence of Non-Uniform Magnetic Fields

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Baker, J.; Calvert, M. E.; Saito, K.; VanderWal, R.

2001-01-01

Magnetic fields impact combustion processes in a manner analogous to that of buoyancy, i.e., as a body force. It is well known that in a terrestrial environment buoyancy is one of the principal transport mechanisms associated with diffusion flame behavior. Unfortunately, in a terrestrial environment it is difficult if not impossible to isolate flame behavior due magnetic fields from the behavior associated with buoyancy. A micro-, or reduced, gravity environment is ideally suited for studying the impact of magnetic fields on diffusion flames due to the decreased impact of buoyancy on flame behavior.

Hybrid LTA vehicle controllability as affected by buoyancy ratio

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Meyers, D. N.; Kubicki, P.; Tarczynski, T.; Fairbanks, A.; Piasecki, F. N.

1979-01-01

The zero and low speed controllability of heavy lift airships under various wind conditions as affected by the buoyancy ratio are investigated. A series of three hybrid LTA vehicls were examined, each having a dynamic thrust system comprised of four H-34 helicopters, but with buoyant envelopes of different volumes (and hence buoyancies), and with varying percentage of helium inflation and varying useful loads (hence gross weights). Buoyancy ratio, B, was thus examined varying from approximately 0.44 to 1.39. For values of B greater than 1.0, the dynamic thrusters must supply negative thrust (i.e. downward).

Hybrid Upwinding for Two-Phase Flow in Heterogeneous Porous Media with Buoyancy and Capillarity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hamon, F. P.; Mallison, B.; Tchelepi, H.

2016-12-01

In subsurface flow simulation, efficient discretization schemes for the partial differential equations governing multiphase flow and transport are critical. For highly heterogeneous porous media, the temporal discretization of choice is often the unconditionally stable fully implicit (backward-Euler) method. In this scheme, the simultaneous update of all the degrees of freedom requires solving large algebraic nonlinear systems at each time step using Newton's method. This is computationally expensive, especially in the presence of strong capillary effects driven by abrupt changes in porosity and permeability between different rock types. Therefore, discretization schemes that reduce the simulation cost by improving the nonlinear convergence rate are highly desirable. To speed up nonlinear convergence, we present an efficient fully implicit finite-volume scheme for immiscible two-phase flow in the presence of strong capillary forces. In this scheme, the discrete viscous, buoyancy, and capillary spatial terms are evaluated separately based on physical considerations. We build on previous work on Implicit Hybrid Upwinding (IHU) by using the upstream saturations with respect to the total velocity to compute the relative permeabilities in the viscous term, and by determining the directionality of the buoyancy term based on the phase density differences. The capillary numerical flux is decomposed into a rock- and geometry-dependent transmissibility factor, a nonlinear capillary diffusion coefficient, and an approximation of the saturation gradient. Combining the viscous, buoyancy, and capillary terms, we obtain a numerical flux that is consistent, bounded, differentiable, and monotone for homogeneous one-dimensional flow. The proposed scheme also accounts for spatially discontinuous capillary pressure functions. Specifically, at the interface between two rock types, the numerical scheme accurately honors the entry pressure condition by solving a local nonlinear problem to compute the numerical flux. Heterogeneous numerical tests demonstrate that this extended IHU scheme is non-oscillatory and convergent upon refinement. They also illustrate the superior accuracy and nonlinear convergence rate of the IHU scheme compared with the standard phase-based upstream weighting approach.

Target parameter estimation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hocking, W. K.

1989-01-01

The objective of any radar experiment is to determine as much as possible about the entities which scatter the radiation. This review discusses many of the various parameters which can be deduced in a radar experiment, and also critically examines the procedures used to deduce them. Methods for determining the mean wind velocity, the RMS fluctuating velocities, turbulence parameters, and the shapes of the scatterers are considered. Complications with these determinations are discussed. It is seen throughout that a detailed understanding of the shape and cause of the scatterers is important in order to make better determinations of these various quantities. Finally, some other parameters, which are less easily acquired, are considered. For example, it is noted that momentum fluxes due to buoyancy waves and turbulence can be determined, and on occasions radars can be used to determine stratospheric diffusion coefficients and even temperature profiles in the atmosphere.

Development and Assessment of CFD Models Including a Supplemental Program Code for Analyzing Buoyancy-Driven Flows Through BWR Fuel Assemblies in SFP Complete LOCA Scenarios

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Artnak, Edward Joseph, III

This work seeks to illustrate the potential benefits afforded by implementing aspects of fluid dynamics, especially the latest computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modeling approach, through numerical experimentation and the traditional discipline of physical experimentation to improve the calibration of the severe reactor accident analysis code, MELCOR, in one of several spent fuel pool (SFP) complete loss-ofcoolant accident (LOCA) scenarios. While the scope of experimental work performed by Sandia National Laboratories (SNL) extends well beyond that which is reasonably addressed by our allotted resources and computational time in accordance with initial project allocations to complete the report, these simulated case trials produced a significant array of supplementary high-fidelity solutions and hydraulic flow-field data in support of SNL research objectives. Results contained herein show FLUENT CFD model representations of a 9x9 BWR fuel assembly in conditions corresponding to a complete loss-of-coolant accident scenario. In addition to the CFD model developments, a MATLAB based controlvolume model was constructed to independently assess the 9x9 BWR fuel assembly under similar accident scenarios. The data produced from this work show that FLUENT CFD models are capable of resolving complex flow fields within a BWR fuel assembly in the realm of buoyancy-induced mass flow rates and that characteristic hydraulic parameters from such CFD simulations (or physical experiments) are reasonably employed in corresponding constitutive correlations for developing simplified numerical models of comparable solution accuracy.

Characteristics of nocturnal coastal boundary layer in Ahtopol based on averaged SODAR profiles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Barantiev, Damyan; Batchvarova, Ekaterina; Novitzky, Mikhail

2014-05-01

The ground-based remote sensing instruments allow studying the wind regime and the turbulent characteristics of the atmosphere with height, achieving new knowledge and solving practical problems, such as air quality assessments, mesoscale models evaluation with high resolution data, characterization of the exchange processes between the surface and the atmosphere, the climate comfort conditions and the risk for extreme events, etc. Very important parameter in such studies is the height of the atmospheric boundary layer. Acoustic remote sensing data of the coastal atmospheric boundary layer were explored based on over 4-years continuous measurements at the meteorological observatory of Ahtopol (Bulgarian Southern Black Sea Coast) under Bulgarian - Russian scientific agreement. Profiles of 12 parameters from a mid-range acoustic sounding instrument type SCINTEC MFAS are derived and averaged up to about 600 m according filtering based on wind direction (land or sea type of night fowls). From the whole investigated period of 1454 days with 10-minute resolution SODAR data 2296 profiles represented night marine air masses and 1975 profiles represented the night flow from land during the months May to September. Graphics of averaged profiles of 12 SODAR output parameters with different availability of data in height are analyzed for both cases. A marine boundary-layer height of about 300 m is identified in the profiles of standard deviation of vertical wind speed (σw), Turbulent Kinetic Energy (TKE) and eddy dissipation rate (EDR). A nocturnal boundary-layer height of about 420 m was identified from the profiles of the same parameters under flows from land condition. In addition, the Buoyancy Production (BP= σw3/z) profiles were calculated from the standard deviation of the vertical wind speed and the height z above ground.

Role of buoyancy and heat release in fire modeling, propagation, and instability

Treesearch

Shahid M. Mughal; Yousuff M. Hussaini; Scott L. Goodrick; Philip Cunningham

2007-01-01

In an investigation of the dynamics of coupled fluid-combustion-buoyancy driven problems, an idealised model formulation is used to investigate the role of buoyancy and heat release in an evolving boundary layer, with particular emphasis on examining underlying fluid dynamics to explain observed phenomena arising in forest fire propagation. The role played by the...

Academically Buoyant Students Are Less Anxious about and Perform Better in High-Stakes Examinations

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Putwain, David W.; Daly, Anthony L.; Chamberlain, Suzanne; Sadreddini, Shireen

2015-01-01

Background: Prior research has shown that test anxiety is negatively related to academic buoyancy, but it is not known whether test anxiety is an antecedent or outcome of academic buoyancy. Furthermore, it is not known whether academic buoyancy is related to performance on high-stakes examinations. Aims: To test a model specifying reciprocal…

Mixed convection flow of a nanofluid containing gyrotactic microorganisms over a stretching/shrinking sheet in the presence of magnetic field

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aman, Fazlina; Mohamad Khazim, Wan Nor Hafizah Wan; Mansur, Syahira

2017-09-01

Interaction of motile microorganisms and nanoparticles along with buoyancy forces will produce nanofluid bioconvection. Bioconvection happened because of the microorganisms are imposed into the nanofluid to stabilize the nanoparticles to suspend. In this paper, we investigated the problem of mixed convection flow of a nanofluid combined with gyrotactic microorganisms over a stretching/shrinking sheet under the influence of magnetic field. The nonlinear partial differential equations are transformed into a set of five similarities nonlinear ordinary differential equations by using similarity transformation, before being solved numerically. Some of the governing parameters involve in this problem are magnetic parameter, stretching/shrinking parameter, Brownian motion parameter, thermophoresis parameter and Prandtl number. Using tables and graphs, the consequences of numerous parameters on the flow and heat transfer features are examined and discussed. The results indicate that the skin friction coefficient, local Nusselt number, local Sherwood number and local density of the motile microorganisms are strongly affected by the governing parameters.

Length Scale and Gravity Effects on Microgravity Boiling Heat Transfer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kim, Jungho; McQuillen, John; Balombin, Joe

2002-01-01

Boiling is a complex phenomenon where hydrodynamics, heat transfer, mass transfer, and interfacial phenomena are tightly interwoven. An understanding of boiling and critical heat flux in microgravity environments is of importance to space based hardware and processes such as heat exchange, cryogenic fuel storage and transportation, electronic cooling, and material processing due to the large amounts of heat that can be removed with relatively little increase in temperature. Although research in this area has been performed in the past four decades, the mechanisms by which heat is removed from surfaces in microgravity are still unclear. In earth gravity, buoyancy is an important parameter that affects boiling heat transfer through the rate at which bubbles are removed from the surface. A simple model describing the bubble departure size based on a quasistatic force balance between buoyancy and surface tension is given by the Fritz [I] relation: Bo(exp 1/2) = 0.0208 theta where Bo is the ratio between buoyancy and surface tension forces. For small, rapidly growing bubbles, inertia associated with the induced liquid motion can also cause bubble departure. In microgravity, the magnitude of effects related to natural convection and buoyancy are small and physical mechanisms normally masked by natural convection in earth gravity such as Marangoni convection can substantially influence the boiling and vapor bubble dynamics. CHF (critical heat transfer) is also substantially affected by microgravity. In 1 g environments, Bo has been used as a correlating parameter for CHF. Zuber's CHF model for an infinite horizontal surface assumes that vapor columns formed by the merger of bubbles become unstable due to a Helmholtz instability blocking the supply of liquid to the surface. The jets are spaced lambda(sub D) apart, where lambda(sub D) = 2pi square root of 3[(sigma)/(g(rho(sub l) - rho(sub v)](exp 1/2) = 2pi square root of 3 L Bo(exp -1/2) = square root of 3 lambda(sub c) and is the wavelength that amplifies most rapidly. The critical wavelength, lambda(sub c), is the wavelength below which a vapor layer underneath a liquid layer is stable. For heaters with Bo smaller than about 3 (heaters smaller than lambda(sub D)), the above model is not applicable, and surface tension effects dominate. Bubble coalescence is thought to be the mechanism for CHF under these conditions. Small Bo can result by decreasing the size of a heater in earth gravity, or by operating a large heater in a lower gravity environment. In the microgravity of space, even large heaters can have low Bo, and models based on Helmholtz instability should not be applicable. The macrolayer model of Haramura and Katto is dimensionally equivalent to Zuber's model and has the same dependence on gravity, so it should not be applicable as well. The goal of this work is to determine how boiling heat transfer mechanisms in a low-g environment are altered from those at higher gravity levels. Boiling data using a microheater array was obtained under gravity environments ranging from 1.8 g to 0.02 g with heater sizes ranging from 2.7 mm to 1 mm. The boiling behavior for 2.7 mm at 0.02 g looked quite similar to boiling on the 1 mm heater at 1 g-the formation of a large primary bubble surrounded by smaller satellite bubbles was observed under both conditions. The similarity suggests that for heaters smaller than some fraction of I(sub c), coalescence and surface tension dominate boiling heat transfer. It also suggests that microgravity boiling can be studied by studying boiling on very small heaters.

Differential diffusion effects on buoyancy-driven instabilities of acid-base fronts: the case of a color indicator.

PubMed

Kuster, S; Riolfo, L A; Zalts, A; El Hasi, C; Almarcha, C; Trevelyan, P M J; De Wit, A; D'Onofrio, A

2011-10-14

Buoyancy-driven hydrodynamic instabilities of acid-base fronts are studied both experimentally and theoretically in the case where an aqueous solution of a strong acid is put above a denser aqueous solution of a color indicator in the gravity field. The neutralization reaction between the acid and the color indicator as well as their differential diffusion modifies the initially stable density profile in the system and can trigger convective motions both above and below the initial contact line. The type of patterns observed as well as their wavelength and the speed of the reaction front are shown to depend on the value of the initial concentrations of the acid and of the color indicator and on their ratio. A reaction-diffusion model based on charge balances and ion pair mobility explains how the instability scenarios change when the concentration of the reactants are varied.

Effect of buoyancy on appearance and characteristics of surface tension repeated auto-oscillations.

PubMed

Kovalchuk, N M; Vollhardt, D

2005-08-11

The effect of buoyancy on spontaneous repeated nonlinear oscillations of surface tension, which appear at the free liquid interface by dissolution of a surfactant droplet under the interface, is considered on the basis of direct numerical simulation of the model system behavior. The oscillations are the result of periodically rising and fading Marangoni instability. The buoyancy force per se cannot lead to the oscillatory behavior in the considered system, but it influences strongly both the onset and decay of the instability and therefore, affects appearance and characteristics of the oscillations. If the surfactant solution density is smaller than the density of the pure liquid, then the buoyancy force leads to a considerable decrease of the induction period and the period of oscillations. The buoyancy force affects also the dependence of the oscillation characteristics on the system dimensions. The results of the simulations are compared with the available experimental data.

A buoyancy-based fiber Bragg grating tilt sensor

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Maheshwari, Muneesh; Yang, Yaowen; Chaturvedi, Tanmay

2017-04-01

In this paper, a novel design of fiber Bragg grating tilt sensor is proposed. This tilt sensor exhibits high angle sensitivity and resolution. The presented tilt sensor works on the principle of the force of buoyancy in a liquid. It has certain advantages over the other designs of tilt sensors. The temperature effect can be easily compensated by using an un-bonded or free FBG. An analytical model is established which correlates the Bragg wavelength (λB) with the angle of inclination. This model is then validated by the experiment, where the experimental and analytical results are found in good agreement with each other.

Combustion of Interacting Droplet Arrays in a Microgravity Environment

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dietrich, Daniel L.; Struk, Peter M.; Kitano, Kunihiro; Ikeda, Koji; Honma, Senji

1997-01-01

This research program involves the study of single droplets and linear arrays of droplets in weakly-buoyant and non-bouyant environments. The primary purpose of the single droplet work was to (1) provide a data base from which to compare droplet array results and (2) to correlate the effects of buoyancy on flame shape. Traditionally convective effects in droplet combustion are represented in terms of the Reynolds number, Re, for forced convection and the Grashof number, Gr, for natural convection. Typically, corrections to the burning rate constant for convective effects are written in terms of Re or Gr(exp 1). The Stefan velocity is not included in these correlations, even though from purely physical reasons, one would expect it to be important, especially at higher burning rates. The flame distortion due to convective effects is less documented quantitatively. Kumagai and Isoda do predict flame shape in natural and forced convective flow fields. Their focus, however, was to predict the actual flame dimensions. Law and co-workers used reduced pressure, high oxidizer ambients to obtain spherical flames. This implies that buoyant flows were reduced at the low pressures, as indicated by a very small Grashof number. Ross et al, however, using scaling arguments showed that reducing the pressure does not have a large effect on the magnitude of the buoyant velocity. Struk et al showed elongated flame shapes during simulated (porous sphere) droplet combustion. The elongation of the flames was due to residual gravity levels aboard the reduced gravity aircraft on which the experiments were conducted. These flame shapes, as well as some data from the literature were interpreted based on a dimensionless grouping called the sphericity parameter, Sp. Sp is the ratio of a characteristic computed buoyant velocity to the Stefan velocity at the flame front. One purpose of the droplet arrays work is to extend the database and theories that exist for single droplets into the regime where droplet interactions are important. The eventual goal being to use the results of this work as inputs to models on spray combustion where droplets seldom burn individually; instead the combustion history of a droplet is strongly influenced by the presence of the neighboring droplets. Recently, Annamali and Ryan have summarized he current status of droplet array, cloud and spray combustion. A number of simplified theories led numerical studies of droplet vaporization/combustion where multiple droplet effects are present are now available. These theories all neglect the effect of buoyancy. Experimentally, most studies to date suffer the effects of buoyancy. It is the dominant transport mechanism in the problem. Only the works of Law and co-worker and more recently by Mikami et al were performed in an environment where buoyancy effects were small. Law and co-workers were limited to high oxygen index, low pressure ambient environments since there studies were conducted in normal gravity.

Neutral Buoyancy Simulator - Fluid line repair kit development

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1997-01-01

Marshall's Neutral Buoyancy Simulator (NBS) is used to simulate the gravitational fields and buoyancy effects outer space has on astronauts and their ability to perform tasks in this environment. In this example, a diver performs a temporary fluid line repair task using a repair kit developed by Marshall engineers. The analysis will determine the value of this repair kit and its feasibility.

Field Effects of Buoyancy on Lean Premixed Turbulent Flames

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cheng, R. K.; Dimalanta, R.; Wernet, M. P.; Greenberg, P. S.

2001-01-01

Buoyancy affects the entire flowfield of steady turbulent flames and this aspect of flame buoyancy coupling is largely unexplored by experiments or by theory. Open flames and flames within large confinements are free to expand and interact with the surrounding environment. In addition to fluid and combustion conditions, their aerodynamic flowfields are determined by the flame brush orientation and geometry, wake of the stabilizer, enclosure size, and of course, the gravitational field. Because the flowfield consists mainly of cold reactants (mostly in the nearfield) and hot products (mostly in the farfield), buoyancy effects are manifested in the farfield region. In upward pointing flames, an obvious effect is a favorable axial pressure gradient that accelerates the products thereby increasing the axial aerodynamic stretch rate. Intrinsic to turbulent flows, changes in mean aerodynamic stretch also couple to the fluctuating pressure field. Consequently, buoyancy can influence the turbulence intensities upstream and downstream of the flame. Flame wrinkling process, and heat release rate are also directly affected. This backward coupling mechanism is the so-called elliptic problem. To resolve the field effects of buoyancy would require the solution of three-dimensional non-linear Navier Stokes equations with full specification of the upstream, wall and downstream boundary conditions.

The argonaut shell: gas-mediated buoyancy control in a pelagic octopus.

PubMed

Finn, Julian K; Norman, Mark D

2010-10-07

Argonauts (Cephalopoda: Argonautidae) are a group of rarely encountered open-ocean pelagic octopuses with benthic ancestry. Female argonauts inhabit a brittle 'paper nautilus' shell, the role of which has puzzled naturalists for millennia. The primary role attributed to the shell has been as a receptacle for egg deposition and brooding. Our observations of wild argonauts have revealed that the thin calcareous shell also functions as a hydrostatic structure, employed by the female argonaut to precisely control buoyancy at varying depths. Female argonauts use the shell to 'gulp' a measured volume of air at the sea surface, seal off the captured gas using flanged arms and forcefully dive to a depth where the compressed gas buoyancy counteracts body weight. This process allows the female argonaut to attain neutral buoyancy at depth and potentially adjust buoyancy to counter the increased (and significant) weight of eggs during reproductive periods. Evolution of this air-capture strategy enables this negatively buoyant octopus to survive free of the sea floor. This major shift in life mode from benthic to pelagic shows strong evolutionary parallels with the origins of all cephalopods, which attained gas-mediated buoyancy via the closed-chambered shells of the true nautiluses and their relatives.

Field Effects of Buoyancy on a Premixed Turbulent Flame Studied by Particle Image Velocimetry

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Cheng, Robert K.

2003-01-01

Typical laboratory flames for the scientific investigation of flame/turbulence interactions are prone to buoyancy effects. Buoyancy acts on these open flame systems and provides upstream feedbacks that control the global flame properties as well as local turbulence/flame interactions. Consequently the flame structures, stabilization limits, and turbulent reaction rates are directly or indirectly coupled with buoyancy. The objective of this study is to characterize the differences between premixed turbulent flames pointing upwards (1g), pointing downwards (-1g), and in microgravity (mg). The configuration is an inverted conical flame stabilized by a small cone-shaped bluff body that we call CLEAN Flames (Cone-Stabilized Lean Flames). We use two laser diagnostics to capture the velocity and scalar fields. Particle image velocimetry (PIV) measures the mean and root mean square velocities and planar imaging by the flame fronts method outlines the flame wrinkle topology. The results were obtained under typical conditions of small domestic heating systems such as water heaters, ovens, and furnaces. Significant differences between the 1g and -1g flames point to the need for including buoyancy contributions in theoretical and numerical calculations. In Earth gravity, there is a complex coupling of buoyancy with the turbulent flow and heat release in the flame. An investigation of buoyancy-free flames in microgravity will provide the key to discern gravity contributions. Data obtained in microgravity flames will provide the benchmark for interpreting and analyzing 1g and -1g flame results.

Effects of body condition on buoyancy in endangered North Atlantic right whales.

PubMed

Nousek-McGregor, Anna E; Miller, Carolyn A; Moore, Michael J; Nowacek, Douglas P

2014-01-01

Buoyancy is an important consideration for diving marine animals, resulting in specific ecologically relevant adaptations. Marine mammals use blubber as an energy reserve, but because this tissue is also positively buoyant, nutritional demands have the potential to cause considerable variation in buoyancy. North Atlantic right whales Eubalaena glacialis are known to be positively buoyant as a result of their blubber, and the thickness of this layer varies considerably, but the effect of this variation on buoyancy has not been explored. This study compared the duration and rate of ascending and descending glides, recorded with an archival tag, with blubber thickness, measured with an ultrasound device, in free-swimming right whales. Ascending whales with thicker blubber had shorter portions of active propulsion and longer passive glides than whales with thinner blubber, suggesting that blubber thickness influences buoyancy because the buoyant force is acting in the same direction as the animal's movement during this phase. Whales with thinner layers also used similar body angles and velocities when traveling to and from depth, while those with thicker layers used shallower ascent angles but achieved higher ascent velocities. Such alterations in body angle may help to reduce the cost of transport when swimming against the force of buoyancy in a state of augmented positive buoyancy, which represents a dynamic response to reduce the energetic consequences of physiological changes. These results have considerable implications for any diving marine animal during periods of nutritional stress, such as during seasonal migrations and annual variations in prey availability.

Effects of rotation and magnetic field on the onset of convective instability in a liquid layer due to buoyancy and surface tension

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sarma, G. S. R.

1982-01-01

Thermocapillary stability characteristics of a horizontal liquid layer heated from below rotating about a vertical axis and subjected to a uniform vertical magnetic field are analyzed under a variety of thermal and electromagnetic boundary conditions. Results based on analytical solutions to the pertinent eigenvalue problems are discussed in the light of earlier work on special cases of the more general problem considered here to show in particular the effects of the heat transfer, nonzero curvature and gravity waves at the two-fluid interface. Although the expected stabilizing action of the Coriolis and Lorentz force fields in this configuration are in evidence the optimal choice of an appropriate range for the relevant parameters is shown to be critically dependent on the interfacial effects mentioned above.

Efficient Flowline Simulations of Ice Shelf-Ocean Interactions: Sensitivity Studies with a Fully Coupled Model

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Walker, Ryan Thomas; Holland, David; Parizek, Byron R.; Alley, Richard B.; Nowicki, Sophie M. J.; Jenkins, Adrian

2013-01-01

Thermodynamic flowline and plume models for the ice shelf-ocean system simplify the ice and ocean dynamics sufficiently to allow extensive exploration of parameters affecting ice-sheet stability while including key physical processes. Comparison between geophysically and laboratory-based treatments of ice-ocean interface thermodynamics shows reasonable agreement between calculated melt rates, except where steep basal slopes and relatively high ocean temperatures are present. Results are especially sensitive to the poorly known drag coefficient, highlighting the need for additional field experiments to constrain its value. These experiments also suggest that if the ice-ocean interface near the grounding line is steeper than some threshold, further steepening of the slope may drive higher entrainment that limits buoyancy, slowing the plume and reducing melting; if confirmed, this will provide a stabilizing feedback on ice sheets under some circumstances.

Academic Buoyancy and Academic Outcomes: Towards a Further Understanding of Students with Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Students without ADHD, and Academic Buoyancy Itself

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Martin, Andrew J.

2014-01-01

Background: Academic buoyancy is students' capacity to successfully overcome setback and challenge that is typical of the ordinary course of everyday academic life. It may represent an important factor on the psycho-educational landscape assisting students who experience difficulties in school and schoolwork. Aims: This study investigated the…

Research and development at the Marshall Space Flight Center Neutral Buoyancy Simulator

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kulpa, Vygantas P.

1987-01-01

The Neutral Buoyancy Simulator (NBS), a facility designed to imitate zero-gravity conditions, was used to test the Experimental Assembly of Structures in Extravehicular Activity (EASE) and the Assembly Concept for Construction of Erectable Space Structures (ACCESS). Neutral Buoyancy Simulator applications and operations; early space structure research; development of the EASE/ACCESS experiments; and improvement of NBS simulation are summarized.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Myrabo, D.O.

This paper describes the world's first buoyant articulated loading column (ALC) made principally of concrete and which can operate in the weather conditions of the North Sea. The ALC is an unmanned structure, mooring and loading being controlled by a tanker. Gravity base buoyancy tanks ''floaters'' are lightly reinforced and have a similar section to the column, 29.5 ft diameter and a wall thickness of 13.8 in. Before towing to the field, the column was ballasted by 1,000 metric tons of hematite, a fine ore aggregate. Final ballast will comprise 1,000 metric tons of hematite and 460 metric tons ofmore » water. Setting will be carried out by pumping water into the column until the base structure contacts the seabed. Once the base has touched down, the 2 cyclindrical buoyancy tanks will be vented, thus instantly applying the full weight of the gravity base to the sea floor and anchoring the ALC. Hyperbaric welding techniques will be used to tie the subsea pipeline into the expansion loop.« less

Mixed convection of magnetohydrodynamic nanofluids inside microtubes at constant wall temperature

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Moshizi, S. A.; Zamani, M.; Hosseini, S. J.; Malvandi, A.

2017-05-01

Laminar fully developed mixed convection of magnetohydrodynamic nanofluids inside microtubes at a constant wall temperature (CWT) under the effects of a variable directional magnetic field is investigated numerically. Nanoparticles are assumed to have slip velocities relative to the base fluid owing to thermophoretic diffusion (temperature gradient driven force) and Brownian diffusion (concentration gradient driven force). The no-slip boundary condition is avoided at the fluid-solid mixture to assess the non-equilibrium region at the fluid-solid interface. A scale analysis is performed to estimate the relative significance of the pertaining parameters that should be included in the governing equations. After the effects of pertinent parameters on the pressure loss and heat transfer enhancement were considered, the figure of merit (FoM) is employed to evaluate and optimize the thermal performance of heat exchange equipment. The results indicate the optimum thermal performance is obtained when the thermophoresis overwhelms the Brownian diffusion, which is for larger nanoparticles. This enhancement boosts when the buoyancy force increases. In addition, increasing the magnetic field strength and slippage at the fluid-solid interface enhances the thermal performance.

Energy cost and putative benefits of cellular mechanisms modulating buoyancy in aflagellate marine phytoplankton.

PubMed

Lavoie, Michel; Raven, John A; Levasseur, Maurice

2016-04-01

Little information is available on the energetics of buoyancy modulation in aflagellate phytoplankton, which comprises the majority of autotrophic cells found in the ocean. Here, we computed for three aflagellate species of marine phytoplankton (Emiliania huxleyi, Thalassiosira pseudonana, and Ethmodiscus rex) the theoretical minimum energy cost as photons absorbed and nitrogen resource required of the key physiological mechanisms (i.e., replacement of quaternary ammonium by dimethyl-sulfoniopropionate, storage of polysaccharides, and cell wall biosynthesis) affecting the cell's vertical movement as a function of nitrogen (N) availability. These energy costs were also normalized to the capacity of each buoyancy mechanism to modulate sinking or rising rates based on Stokes' law. The three physiological mechanisms could act as ballast in the three species tested in conditions of low N availability at a low fraction (<12%) of the total photon energy cost for growth. Cell wall formation in E. huxleyi was the least costly ballast strategy, whereas in T. pseudonana, the photon energy cost of the three ballast strategies was similar. In E. rex, carbohydrate storage and mobilization appear to be energetically cheaper than modulations in organic solute synthesis to achieve vertical migration. This supports the carbohydrate-ballast strategy for vertical migration for this species, but argues against the theory of replacement of low- or high-density organic solutes. This study brings new insights into the energy cost and potential selective advantages of several strategies modulating the buoyancy of aflagellate marine phytoplankton. © 2016 Phycological Society of America.

Electrophoretic interactions and aggregation of colloidal biological particles

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Davis, Robert H.; Nichols, Scott C.; Loewenberg, Michael; Todd, Paul

1994-01-01

The separation of cells or particles from solution has traditionally been accomplished with centrifuges or by sedimentation; however, many particles have specific densities close to unity, making buoyancy-driven motion slow or negligible, but most cells and particles carry surface charges, making them ideal for electrophoretic separation. Both buoyancy-driven and electrophoretic separation may be influenced by hydrodynamic interactions and aggregation of neighboring particles. Aggregation by electrophoresis was analyzed for two non-Brownian particles with different zeta potentials and thin double layers migrating through a viscous fluid. The results indicate that the initial rate of electrophoretically-driven aggregation may exceed that of buoyancy-driven aggregation, even under conditions in which buoyancy-driven relative motion of noninteracting particles is dominant.

Numerical study of steady dissipative mixed convection optically-thick micropolar flow with thermal radiation effects

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gupta, Diksha; Kumar, Lokendra; Bég, O. Anwar; Singh, Bani

2017-10-01

The objective of this paper is to study theoretically and numerically the effect of thermal radiation on mixed convection boundary layer flow of a dissipative micropolar non-Newtonian fluid from a continuously moving vertical porous sheet. The governing partial differential equations are transformed into a set of non-linear differential equations by using similarity transformations. These equations are solved iteratively with the Bellman-Kalaba quasi-linearization algorithm. This method converges quadratically and the solution is valid for a large range of parameters. The effects of transpiration (suction or injection) parameter, buoyancy parameter, radiation parameter and Eckert number on velocity, microrotation and temperature functions have been studied. Under a special case comparison of the present numerical results is made with the results available in the literature and an excellent agreement is found. Additionally skin friction and rate of heat transfer have also been computed. The study has applications in polymer processing.

Free Convection Nanofluid Flow in the Stagnation-Point Region of a Three-Dimensional Body

PubMed Central

Farooq, Umer

2014-01-01

Analytical results are presented for a steady three-dimensional free convection flow in the stagnation point region over a general curved isothermal surface placed in a nanofluid. The momentum equations in x- and y-directions, energy balance equation, and nanoparticle concentration equation are reduced to a set of four fully coupled nonlinear differential equations under appropriate similarity transformations. The well known technique optimal homotopy analysis method (OHAM) is used to obtain the exact solution explicitly, whose convergence is then checked in detail. Besides, the effects of the physical parameters, such as the Lewis number, the Brownian motion parameter, the thermophoresis parameter, and the buoyancy ratio on the profiles of velocities, temperature, and concentration, are studied and discussed. Furthermore the local skin friction coefficients in x- and y-directions, the local Nusselt number, and the local Sherwood number are examined for various values of the physical parameters. PMID:25114954

A dimensionless parameter approach to the thermal behavior of an aquifer thermal energy storage system

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Doughty, C.; Hellstrom, G.; Tsang, C. F.; Claesson, J.

1982-09-01

The purpose of aquifer thermal energy storage (ATES) site-characterization studies is to develop a general procedure whereby the energy recovery factor for a given site may be predicted readily for a wide range of operating conditions without doing detailed numerical simulations. The thermal behavior of a ATES system with steady radial fluid flow around a single injection/production well is discussed. Buoyancy flow is neglected, and the aquifer is confined above and below by impermeable confining layers.

Weight and cost estimating relationships for heavy lift airships

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Gray, D. W.

1979-01-01

Weight and cost estimating relationships, including additional parameters that influence the cost and performance of heavy-lift airships (HLA), are discussed. Inputs to a closed loop computer program, consisting of useful load, forward speed, lift module positive or negative thrust, and rotors and propellers, are examined. Detail is given to the HLA cost and weight program (HLACW), which computes component weights, vehicle size, buoyancy lift, rotor and propellar thrust, and engine horse power. This program solves the problem of interrelating the different aerostat, rotors, engines and propeller sizes. Six sets of 'default parameters' are left for the operator to change during each computer run enabling slight data manipulation without altering the program.

Transport of magnetohydrodynamic nanomaterial in a stratified medium considering gyrotactic microorganisms

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Waqas, M.; Hayat, T.; Shehzad, S. A.; Alsaedi, A.

2018-01-01

Impact of gyrotactic microorganisms on two-dimensional (2D) stratified flow of an Oldroyd-B nanomaterial is highlighted. Applied magnetic field along with mixed convection is considered in the formulation. Theory of microorganisms is utilized just to stabilize the suspended nanoparticles through bioconvection induced by combined effects of buoyancy forces and magnetic field. Convergent series solutions for the obtained nonlinear differential systems are derived. Impacts of different emerging parameters on velocity, temperature, concentration, motile microorganisms density, density number of motile microorganisms and local Nusselt and Sherwood numbers are graphically addressed. It is observed that thermal, concentration and motile density stratification parameters result in reduction of temperature, concentration and motile microorganisms density distributions respectively.

On firework blasts and qualitative parameter dependency.

PubMed

Zohdi, T I

2016-01-01

In this paper, a mathematical model is developed to qualitatively simulate the progressive time-evolution of a blast from a simple firework. Estimates are made for the blast radius that one can expect for a given amount of detonation energy and pyrotechnic display material. The model balances the released energy from the initial blast pulse with the subsequent kinetic energy and then computes the trajectory of the material under the influence of the drag from the surrounding air, gravity and possible buoyancy. Under certain simplifying assumptions, the model can be solved for analytically. The solution serves as a guide to identifying key parameters that control the evolving blast envelope. Three-dimensional examples are given.

On firework blasts and qualitative parameter dependency

PubMed Central

Zohdi, T. I.

2016-01-01

In this paper, a mathematical model is developed to qualitatively simulate the progressive time-evolution of a blast from a simple firework. Estimates are made for the blast radius that one can expect for a given amount of detonation energy and pyrotechnic display material. The model balances the released energy from the initial blast pulse with the subsequent kinetic energy and then computes the trajectory of the material under the influence of the drag from the surrounding air, gravity and possible buoyancy. Under certain simplifying assumptions, the model can be solved for analytically. The solution serves as a guide to identifying key parameters that control the evolving blast envelope. Three-dimensional examples are given. PMID:26997903

Experimental study of stratified jet by simultaneous measurements of velocity and density fields

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xu, Duo; Chen, Jun

2012-07-01

Stratified flows with small density difference commonly exist in geophysical and engineering applications, which often involve interaction of turbulence and buoyancy effect. A combined particle image velocimetry (PIV) and planar laser-induced fluorescence (PLIF) system is developed to measure the velocity and density fields in a dense jet discharged horizontally into a tank filled with light fluid. The illumination of PIV particles and excitation of PLIF dye are achieved by a dual-head pulsed Nd:YAG laser and two CCD cameras with a set of optical filters. The procedure for matching refractive indexes of two fluids and calibration of the combined system are presented, as well as a quantitative analysis of the measurement uncertainties. The flow structures and mixing dynamics within the central vertical plane are studied by examining the averaged parameters, turbulent kinetic energy budget, and modeling of momentum flux and buoyancy flux. At downstream, profiles of velocity and density display strong asymmetry with respect to its center. This is attributed to the fact that stable stratification reduces mixing and unstable stratification enhances mixing. In stable stratification region, most of turbulence production is consumed by mean-flow convection, whereas in unstable stratification region, turbulence production is nearly balanced by viscous dissipation. Experimental data also indicate that at downstream locations, mixing length model performs better in mixing zone of stable stratification regions, whereas in other regions, eddy viscosity/diffusivity models with static model coefficients represent effectively momentum and buoyancy flux terms. The measured turbulent Prandtl number displays strong spatial variation in the stratified jet.

Dynamics of two-dimensional bubbles.

PubMed

Piedra, Saúl; Ramos, Eduardo; Herrera, J Ramón

2015-06-01

The dynamics of two-dimensional bubbles ascending under the influence of buoyant forces is numerically studied with a one-fluid model coupled with the front-tracking technique. The bubble dynamics are described by recording the position, shape, and orientation of the bubbles as functions of time. The qualitative properties of the bubbles and their terminal velocities are described in terms of the Eötvos (ratio of buoyancy to surface tension) and Archimedes numbers (ratio of buoyancy to viscous forces). The terminal Reynolds number result from the balance of buoyancy and drag forces and, consequently, is not an externally fixed parameter. In the cases that yield small Reynolds numbers, the bubbles follow straight paths and the wake is steady. A more interesting behavior is found at high Reynolds numbers where the bubbles follow an approximately periodic zigzag trajectory and an unstable wake with properties similar to the Von Karman vortex street is formed. The dynamical features of the motion of single bubbles are compared to experimental observations of air bubbles ascending in a water-filled Hele-Shaw cell. Although the comparison is not strictly valid in the sense that the effect of the lateral walls is not incorporated in the model, most of the dynamical properties observed are in good qualitative agreement with the numerical calculations. Hele-Shaw cells with different gaps have been used to determine the degree of approximation of the numerical calculation. It is found that for the relation between the terminal Reynolds number and the Archimedes number, the numerical calculations are closer to the observations of bubble dynamics in Hele-Shaw cells of larger gaps.

Why does tropical convective available potential energy (CAPE) increase with warming?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Seeley, Jacob T.; Romps, David M.

2015-12-01

Recent work has produced a theory for tropical convective available potential energy (CAPE) that highlights the Clausius-Clapeyron (CC) scaling of the atmosphere's saturation deficit as a driver of increases in CAPE with warming. Here we test this so-called "zero-buoyancy" theory for CAPE by modulating the saturation deficit of cloud-resolving simulations of radiative-convective equilibrium in two ways: changing the sea surface temperature (SST) and changing the environmental relative humidity (RH). For earthlike and warmer SSTs, undilute parcel buoyancy in the lower troposphere is insensitive to increasing SST because of a countervailing CC scaling that balances the increase in the saturation deficit; however, buoyancy increases dramatically with SST in the upper troposphere. Conversely, in the RH experiment, undilute buoyancy throughout the troposphere increases monotonically with decreasing RH. We show that the zero-buoyancy theory successfully predicts these contrasting behaviors, building confidence that it describes the fundamental physics of CAPE and its response to warming.

Coupling between Buoyancy Forces and Electroconvective Instability near Ion-Selective Surfaces.

PubMed

Karatay, Elif; Andersen, Mathias Bækbo; Wessling, Matthias; Mani, Ali

2016-05-13

Recent investigations have revealed that ion transport from aqueous electrolytes to ion-selective surfaces is subject to electroconvective instability that stems from coupling of hydrodynamics with electrostatic forces. These systems inherently involve fluid density variation set by salinity gradients. However, the coupling between the buoyancy effects and electroconvective instability has not yet been investigated although a wide range of electrochemical systems are naturally prone to these interplaying effects. In this study we thoroughly examine the interplay of gravitational convection and chaotic electroconvection. Our results reveal that buoyant forces can significantly influence the transport rates, otherwise set by electroconvection, when the Rayleigh number Ra of the system exceeds a value Ra∼1000. We show that buoyancy forces can significantly alter the flow patterns in these systems. When the buoyancy acts in the stabilizing direction, it limits the extent of penetration of electroconvection, but without eliminating it. When the buoyancy destabilizes the flow, it alters the electroconvective patterns by introducing upward and downward fingers of respectively light and heavy fluids.

Wind Shear Effects on the Structure and Dynamics of the Daytime Atmospheric Boundary Layer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Haghshenas, Armin; Mellado, Juan Pedro

2017-04-01

The daytime atmospheric boundary layer (ABL), in which the positive buoyancy flux at the surface creates convective instability and generates turbulence, has been a subject of extensive research during the last century. However, fewer studies have considered wind shear in detail and most of them are single-case studies. So most of the available theories and parameterizations have not been sufficiently tested over a wide range of atmospheric conditions. Moreover, since previous numerical studies were mostly carried out by large eddy simulation, a complete understanding of the physics of the problem is still missing due to the lack of information about the small-scale dynamics. Specifically, despite the consensus in the community that wind shear enhances the entrainment process, the amount of enhancement is still matter of contention. In order to investigate the effects of wind shear on the structure and dynamics of the ABL in detail, direct numerical simulations are used in this study. Shear is prescribed by a height-constant velocity in the troposphere and the simulation runs until a fully turbulent, quasi-equilibrium regime is observed. Despite the simplification of neglecting the Coriolis force, our configuration reproduces the main features observed in the previous studies, which had taken the Coriolis force into account. As a novelty compared to previous single-case studies, we introduce a dimensionless parameter that allows us to study systematically any combination of surface buoyancy flux, buoyancy stratification, and wind shear; We refer to this dimensionless number as shear number. Seven simulations with shear numbers ranging from 0 (no wind) to 20 (moderate wind) are conducted; this range of shear numbers corresponds to wind strength from 0 to 15 m/s in the free troposphere for typical midday atmospheric conditions. In general, we find that shear effects are negligibly small when the shear number is below 10, and for larger values the effects remain constrained inside the entrainment zone and surface layer. This critical shear number is justified by scrutinizing the turbulence regimes (convective and mechanical) within the entrainment zone in the sense that, for this shear number, the turbulence transport of turbulence kinetic energy inside the entrainment zone equals the shear-production rate. Following this analysis a critical flux Richardson number of 0.6 inside the entrainment zone is found. In particular, we observe the following: First, the mean buoyancy and total buoyancy flux inside the mixed layer remain invariant under a change of shear number and they follow the free-convection scaling laws. Second, the height of minimum buoyancy flux increases due to shear effects, but just moderately (less than 5%). Nevertheless, this increment represents a growth of entrainment zone's thickness by 50% for shear numbers of the order of 20. Third, we observe that for shear numbers larger than 10, the entrainment flux ratio grows by up to 50% in an early state of ABL development. We provide explicit parameterizations of all these shear effects.

Report for neutral buoyancy simulations of transfer orbit stage contingency extravehicular activities

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sexton, J. D.

1992-01-01

The transfer orbit stage (TOS) will propel the advanced communications technology satellite (ACTS) from the Space Shuttle to an Earth geosynchronous transfer orbit. Two neutral buoyancy test series were conducted at MSFC to validate the extravehicular activities (EVA) contingency operations for the ACTS/TOS/mission. The results of the neutral buoyancy tests are delineated and a brief history of the TOS EVA program is given.

The foraging benefits of being fat in a highly migratory marine mammal

PubMed Central

Adachi, Taiki; Maresh, Jennifer L.; Robinson, Patrick W.; Peterson, Sarah H.; Costa, Daniel P.; Naito, Yasuhiko; Watanabe, Yuuki Y.; Takahashi, Akinori

2014-01-01

Foraging theory predicts that breath-hold divers adjust the time spent foraging at depth relative to the energetic cost of swimming, which varies with buoyancy (body density). However, the buoyancy of diving animals varies as a function of their body condition, and the effects of these changes on swimming costs and foraging behaviour have been poorly examined. A novel animal-borne accelerometer was developed that recorded the number of flipper strokes, which allowed us to monitor the number of strokes per metre swam (hereafter, referred to as strokes-per-metre) by female northern elephant seals over their months-long, oceanic foraging migrations. As negatively buoyant seals increased their fat stores and buoyancy, the strokes-per-metre increased slightly in the buoyancy-aided direction (descending), but decreased significantly in the buoyancy-hindered direction (ascending), with associated changes in swim speed and gliding duration. Overall, the round-trip strokes-per-metre decreased and reached a minimum value when seals achieved neutral buoyancy. Consistent with foraging theory, seals stayed longer at foraging depths when their round-trip strokes-per-metre was less. Therefore, neutrally buoyant divers gained an energetic advantage via reduced swimming costs, which resulted in an increase in time spent foraging at depth, suggesting a foraging benefit of being fat. PMID:25377461

The argonaut shell: gas-mediated buoyancy control in a pelagic octopus

PubMed Central

Finn, Julian K.; Norman, Mark D.

2010-01-01

Argonauts (Cephalopoda: Argonautidae) are a group of rarely encountered open-ocean pelagic octopuses with benthic ancestry. Female argonauts inhabit a brittle ‘paper nautilus’ shell, the role of which has puzzled naturalists for millennia. The primary role attributed to the shell has been as a receptacle for egg deposition and brooding. Our observations of wild argonauts have revealed that the thin calcareous shell also functions as a hydrostatic structure, employed by the female argonaut to precisely control buoyancy at varying depths. Female argonauts use the shell to ‘gulp’ a measured volume of air at the sea surface, seal off the captured gas using flanged arms and forcefully dive to a depth where the compressed gas buoyancy counteracts body weight. This process allows the female argonaut to attain neutral buoyancy at depth and potentially adjust buoyancy to counter the increased (and significant) weight of eggs during reproductive periods. Evolution of this air-capture strategy enables this negatively buoyant octopus to survive free of the sea floor. This major shift in life mode from benthic to pelagic shows strong evolutionary parallels with the origins of all cephalopods, which attained gas-mediated buoyancy via the closed-chambered shells of the true nautiluses and their relatives. PMID:20484241

Accurate fluid force measurement based on control surface integration

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lentink, David

2018-01-01

Nonintrusive 3D fluid force measurements are still challenging to conduct accurately for freely moving animals, vehicles, and deforming objects. Two techniques, 3D particle image velocimetry (PIV) and a new technique, the aerodynamic force platform (AFP), address this. Both rely on the control volume integral for momentum; whereas PIV requires numerical integration of flow fields, the AFP performs the integration mechanically based on rigid walls that form the control surface. The accuracy of both PIV and AFP measurements based on the control surface integration is thought to hinge on determining the unsteady body force associated with the acceleration of the volume of displaced fluid. Here, I introduce a set of non-dimensional error ratios to show which fluid and body parameters make the error negligible. The unsteady body force is insignificant in all conditions where the average density of the body is much greater than the density of the fluid, e.g., in gas. Whenever a strongly deforming body experiences significant buoyancy and acceleration, the error is significant. Remarkably, this error can be entirely corrected for with an exact factor provided that the body has a sufficiently homogenous density or acceleration distribution, which is common in liquids. The correction factor for omitting the unsteady body force, {{{ {ρ f}} {1 - {ρ f} ( {{ρ b}+{ρ f}} )}.{( {{{{ρ }}b}+{ρ f}} )}}} , depends only on the fluid, {ρ f}, and body, {{ρ }}b, density. Whereas these straightforward solutions work even at the liquid-gas interface in a significant number of cases, they do not work for generalized bodies undergoing buoyancy in combination with appreciable body density inhomogeneity, volume change (PIV), or volume rate-of-change (PIV and AFP). In these less common cases, the 3D body shape needs to be measured and resolved in time and space to estimate the unsteady body force. The analysis shows that accounting for the unsteady body force is straightforward to non-intrusively and accurately determine fluid force in most applications.

Buoyancy Waves in Earth's Magnetosphere: Calculations for a 2-D Wedge Magnetosphere

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Wolf, R. A.; Toffoletto, F. R.; Schutza, A. M.; Yang, J.

2018-05-01

To improve theoretical understanding of the braking oscillations observed in Earth's inner plasma sheet, we have derived a theoretical model that describes k∥ = 0 magnetohydrodynamic waves in an idealized magnetospheric configuration that consists of a 2-D wedge with circular-arc field lines. The low-frequency, short-perpendicular-wavelength mode obeys a differential equation that is often used to describe buoyancy oscillations in a neutral atmosphere, so we call those waves "buoyancy waves," though the magnetospheric buoyancy force results from magnetic tension rather than gravity. Propagation of the wave is governed mainly by a position-dependent frequency ωb, the "buoyancy frequency," which is a fundamental property of the magnetosphere. The waves propagate if ωb > ω but otherwise evanesce. In the wedge magnetosphere, ωb turns out to be exactly the fundamental oscillation frequency for poloidal oscillations of a thin magnetic filament, and we assume that the same is true for the real magnetosphere. Observable properties of buoyancy oscillations are discussed, but propagation characteristics vary considerably with the state of the magnetosphere. For a given event, the buoyancy frequency and propagation characteristics can be determined from pressure and density profiles and a magnetic field model, and these characteristics have been worked out for one typical configuration. A localized disturbance that initially resembles a dipolarizing flux bundle spreads east-west and also penetrates into the plasmasphere to some extent. The calculated amplitude near the center of the original wave packet decays in a few oscillation periods, even though our calculation includes no dissipation.

Analysis of activation energy in Couette-Poiseuille flow of nanofluid in the presence of chemical reaction and convective boundary conditions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zeeshan, A.; Shehzad, N.; Ellahi, R.

2018-03-01

The motivation of the current article is to explore the energy activation in MHD radiative Couette-Poiseuille flow nanofluid in horizontal channel with convective boundary conditions. The mathematical model of Buongiorno [1] effectively describes the current flow analysis. Additionally, the impact of chemical reaction is also taken in account. The governing flow equations are simplified with the help of boundary layer approximations. Non-linear coupled equations for momentum, energy and mass transfer are tackled with analytical (HAM) technique. The influence of dimensionless convergence parameter like Brownian motion parameter, radiation parameter, buoyancy ratio parameter, dimensionless activation energy, thermophoresis parameter, temperature difference parameter, dimensionless reaction rate, Schmidt number, Brinkman number, Biot number and convection diffusion parameter on velocity, temperature and concentration profiles are discussed graphically and in tabular form. From the results, it is elaborate that the nanoparticle concentration is directly proportional to the chemical reaction with activation energy and the performance of Brownian motion on nanoparticle concentration gives reverse pattern to that of thermophoresis parameter.

Why turbulence sustains in supercritically stratified free atmosphere?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zilitinkevich, Sergej

2016-04-01

It is widely believed that in very stable stratifications, at Richardson numbers (Ri) exceeding critical value Ric ˜ 0.25 turbulence decays and flow becomes laminar. This is so at low Reynolds numbers (Re), e.g., in lab experiments; but this is not true in very-high-Re geophysical flows. Free atmosphere and deep ocean are turbulent in spite of strongly supercritical stratifications: 1 << Ri < 103. Until recently, this paradox remained unexplained. The Energy- and Flux-Budget (EFB) turbulence-closure (Zilitinkevich et al., 2013) has disclosed the following turbulence self-control mechanisms. Until recently, the role of negative buoyancy flux, Fb > 0, in turbulence energetics was treated in terms of the turbulent kinetic energy (TKE) budget equation and understood as just consumption of TKE by the buoyancy forces. This has led to the conclusion that sufficiently strong static stability causes the negative buoyancy flux sufficiently strong to exceed the TKE generation rate and thus to kill turbulence. However, considering TKE equation together with budget equation for turbulent potential energy (TPE proportional to the squared buoyancy fluctuations) shows that the role of Fb in turbulence energetics is nothing but conversion of TKE into TPE (Fb just quantifies the rate of this conversion); so that Fb does not affect total turbulent energy (TTE = TKE + TPE). Moreover, as follows from the buoyancy-flux budget equation, TPE generates positive (directed upward) buoyancy flux irrespective of the sign of the buoyancy gradient. Indeed, the warmer fluid particles (with positive buoyancy fluctuation) rise up, whereas the cooler particles sink down, so that both contribute to the positive buoyancy flux opposing to the usual, negative flux generated by mean buoyancy gradient. In this context, strengthening the negative buoyancy flux leads to decreasing TKE and increasing TPE. The latter enhances the counter-gradient share of the total flux, thus reduces |Fb| and, eventually, increases TKE. The above negative feedback was disregarded in the conventional concept of down-gradient turbulent transport. This mechanism imposes a limit on the maximal (independent of the buoyancy gradient) value of |Fb| and thus prevents degeneration of turbulence. The EFB theory has predicted that the critical Richardson number, Ric ˜ 0.25, characterising the hydrodynamic instability limit and the turbulent-laminar flow threshold at low Reynolds numbers, remains a principal threshold also in the very-high-Re turbulence; but here it separates the two turbulent regimes of dramatically different nature: Ri < Ric: the familiar "strong-mixing turbulence" typical of boundary-layer flows, wherein turbulent Prandtl number remaines practically constant: PrT ˜ 1 (the so-called "Reynolds analogy"); Ri > Ric: the newly revealed "wave-like turbulence" typical of the free atmosphere and deep ocean, wherein sharply increases with increasing Ri (asymptotically as PrT ≈ 5 Ri). This theoretical finding fits well with experimental evidence. Modellers long ago knew that turbulent heat transfer in the free atmosphere should be taken much weaker than the momentum transfer. The EFB theory gives authentic formulation for this rule and provides physically grounded method for modelling turbulence up to very stable startifications.

Birch Lecture : The Deep Roots of Continents

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jaupart, C.

2006-12-01

The roots of Archean continents are made of depleted and buoyant mantle and may extend to depths larger than 250 km. Such distinctive characteristics have key dynamical and geological consequences that we are only beginning to address. Thick roots provide large volume repositories for chemical elements that do not mix with Earth's convecting interior. Their large diffusive relaxation time implies long-term thermal disequilibrium with their radioactive heat sources and with the cooling of the mantle. Their negative thermal buoyancy may drive convective instabilities with implications for intracontinental deformation and magmatism as well as for continental growth. The dynamical behaviour of continental roots depends on the buoyancy ratio B, the ratio of the intrinsic (chemical) buoyancy of depleted lithospheric mantle and the density difference due to thermal expansion. The lithosphere can be mechanically stable and in thermal equilibrium with heat supplied by small-scale convection at the top of the asthenosphere. Sufficient cooling may result in an oscillatory convective instability whereby perturbations to the base of the lithosphere rise and fall periodically. The lithosphere seems to have developed in a state near that of instability with different thicknesses depending on its intrinsic buoyancy. It may have grown not only by chemical differentiation during melting, but also by oscillatory convection entraining chemically denser material from the asthenosphere. Mantle plumes have different effects on lithospheres of different thicknesses and compositions. For B values larger than about 0.6, plume material does not really penetrate into the lithosphere and spreads beneath it. In this case, the buoyancy force that is applied to the base of the lithosphere drives moderate thinning and extension over large horizontal distances. It takes values of B less than 0.6 to achieve true plume penetration with a significant vertical velocity component. In this case, thinning and extension get localized above the rising plume. In both cases, heated lithosphere material becomes convectively unstable after some time and entrains asthenospheric material as it rises. Temperatures in thick continental lithosphere do not adjust rapidly to secular changes of mantle temperature. Analysis of (P,T) data from xenolith studies indicates that the Earth's mantle has cooled at a rate of 80 K Ga-1 or less. Thick continental roots preserve a record of Archean processes and of Earth's evolution through geological ages. Deciphering this record may well be our next challenge.

Sink or Swim: Standards-Based Integrated Science.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Audet, Richard H.

1997-01-01

Describes an activity designed to comply with the National Science Education Standards that introduces the principles of buoyancy and density by using plastic soda bottles, ketchup packets, and other simple materials. Laboratory activity is included. (DKM)

Pool and flow boiling in variable and microgravity

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Merte, Herman, Jr.

1994-01-01

As is well known, boiling is an effective mode of heat transfer in that high heat flux levels are possible with relatively small temperature differences. Its optimal application requires that the process be adequately understood. A measure of the understanding of any physical event lies in the ability to predict its behavior in terms of the relevant parameters. Despite many years of research the predictability of boiling is currently possible only for quite specialized circumstances, e.g., the critical heat flux and film boiling for the pool boiling case, and then only with special geometries. Variable gravity down to microgravity provides the opportunity to test this understanding, but possibly more important, by changing the dimensional and time scales involved permits more detailed observations of elements involved in the boiling process, and perhaps discloses phenomena heretofore unknown. The focus here is on nucleate boiling although, as will be demonstrated below, under but certain circumstances in microgravity it can take place concurrently with the dryout process. In the presence of earth gravity or forced convection effects, the latter process is usually referred to as film boiling. However, no vapor film as such forms with pool boiling in microgravity, only dryout. Initial results are presented here for pool boiling in microgravity, and were made possible at such an early date by the availability of the Get-Away-Specials (GAS). Also presented here are some results of ground testing of a flow loop for the study of low velocity boiling, eventually to take place also in microgravity. In the interim, variable buoyancy normal to the heater surface is achieved by rotation of the entire loop relative to earth gravity. Of course, this is at the expense of varying the buoyancy parallel to the heater surface. Two questions which must be resolved early in the study of flow boiling in microgravity are (1) the lower limits of liquid flow velocity where buoyancy effects become significant to the boiling process (2) the effect of lower liquid flow velocities on the Critical Heat Flux when buoyancy is removed. Results of initial efforts in these directions are presented, albeit restricted currently to the ever present earth gravity.

Investigation of buoyancy effects on turbulent nonpremixed jet flames by using normal and low-gravity conditions

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Idicheria, Cherian Alex

An experimental study was performed with the aim of investigating the structure of transitional and turbulent nonpremixed jet flames under different gravity conditions. In particular, the focus was to determine the effect of buoyancy on the mean and fluctuating characteristics of the jet flames. Experiments were conducted under three gravity levels, viz. 1 g, 20 mg and 100 mug. The milligravity and microgravity conditions were achieved by dropping a jet-flame rig in the UT-Austin 1.25-second and the NASA-Glenn Research Center 2.2-second drop towers, respectively. The principal diagnostics employed were time-resolved, cinematographic imaging of the visible soot luminosity and planar laser Mie scattering (PLMS). For the cinematographic flame luminosity imaging experiments, the flames studied were piloted nonpremixed propane, ethylene and methane jet flames at source Reynolds numbers ranging from 2000 to 10500. From the soot luminosity images, mean and root-mean square (RMS) images were computed, and volume rendering of the image sequences was used to investigate the large-scale structure evolution and flame tip dynamics. The relative importance of buoyancy was quantified with the parameter, xL , as defined by Becker and Yamazaki [1978]. The results show, in contrast to previous microgravity studies, that the high Reynolds number flames have the same flame length irrespective of the gravity level. The RMS fluctuations and volume renderings indicate that the large-scale structure and flame tip dynamics are essentially identical to those of purely momentum driven flames provided xL is approximately less than 2. The volume-renderings show that the luminous structure celerities (normalized by jet exit velocity) are approximately constant for xL < 6, but are substantially larger for xL > 8. The celerity values for xL > 8 are seen to follow a x3/2L scaling, which can be predicted with a simplified momentum equation analysis for the buoyancy-dominated regime. The underlying turbulent structure and mean mixture fraction characteristics were investigated in nonreacting and reacting jets with a PLMS diagnostic system developed for the UT-Austin 1.25-second drop tower. (Abstract shortened by UMI.)

Young People's Academic Buoyancy and Adaptability: A Cross-Cultural Comparison of China with North America and the United Kingdom

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Martin, Andrew J.; Yu, Kai; Ginns, Paul; Papworth, Brad

2017-01-01

We investigated academic buoyancy (a response to challenge) and adaptability (a response to change) among a sample of 12-16-year-olds in China (N = 3617) compared with same-aged youth from North America (N = 989) and the United Kingdom (UK; N = 1182). We found that Chinese students reported higher mean levels of buoyancy and adaptability. We also…

46 CFR 197.342 - Buoyancy-changing devices.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... STANDARDS GENERAL PROVISIONS Commercial Diving Operations Equipment § 197.342 Buoyancy-changing devices. (a...-changing device must have an inflation source separate from the breathing gas supply. ...

The foraging benefits of being fat in a highly migratory marine mammal.

PubMed

Adachi, Taiki; Maresh, Jennifer L; Robinson, Patrick W; Peterson, Sarah H; Costa, Daniel P; Naito, Yasuhiko; Watanabe, Yuuki Y; Takahashi, Akinori

2014-12-22

Foraging theory predicts that breath-hold divers adjust the time spent foraging at depth relative to the energetic cost of swimming, which varies with buoyancy (body density). However, the buoyancy of diving animals varies as a function of their body condition, and the effects of these changes on swimming costs and foraging behaviour have been poorly examined. A novel animal-borne accelerometer was developed that recorded the number of flipper strokes, which allowed us to monitor the number of strokes per metre swam (hereafter, referred to as strokes-per-metre) by female northern elephant seals over their months-long, oceanic foraging migrations. As negatively buoyant seals increased their fat stores and buoyancy, the strokes-per-metre increased slightly in the buoyancy-aided direction (descending), but decreased significantly in the buoyancy-hindered direction (ascending), with associated changes in swim speed and gliding duration. Overall, the round-trip strokes-per-metre decreased and reached a minimum value when seals achieved neutral buoyancy. Consistent with foraging theory, seals stayed longer at foraging depths when their round-trip strokes-per-metre was less. Therefore, neutrally buoyant divers gained an energetic advantage via reduced swimming costs, which resulted in an increase in time spent foraging at depth, suggesting a foraging benefit of being fat. © 2014 The Author(s) Published by the Royal Society. All rights reserved.

Large eddy simulation of pollutant gas dispersion with buoyancy ejected from building into an urban street canyon.

PubMed

Hu, L H; Xu, Y; Zhu, W; Wu, L; Tang, F; Lu, K H

2011-09-15

The dispersion of buoyancy driven smoke soot and carbon monoxide (CO) gas, which was ejected out from side building into an urban street canyon with aspect ratio of 1 was investigated by large eddy simulation (LES) under a perpendicular wind flow. Strong buoyancy effect, which has not been revealed before, on such pollution dispersion in the street canyon was studied. The buoyancy release rate was 5 MW. The wind speed concerned ranged from 1 to 7.5m/s. The characteristics of flow pattern, distribution of smoke soot and temperature, CO concentration were revealed by the LES simulation. Dimensionless Froude number (Fr) was firstly introduced here to characterize the pollutant dispersion with buoyancy effect counteracting the wind. It was found that the flow pattern can be well categorized into three regimes. A regular characteristic large vortex was shown for the CO concentration contour when the wind velocity was higher than the critical re-entrainment value. A new formula was theoretically developed to show quantitatively that the critical re-entrainment wind velocities, u(c), for buoyancy source at different floors, were proportional to -1/3 power of the characteristic height. LES simulation results agreed well with theoretical analysis. The critical Froude number was found to be constant of 0.7. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Buoyancy disorders in pet axolotls Ambystoma mexicanum: three cases.

PubMed

Takami, Yoshinori; Une, Yumi

2018-01-31

As far as we are aware, there are no previous reports on the pathologic conditions of buoyancy disorders in Ambystoma mexicanum. Herein, we describe various clinical test results, clinical outcomes, and the pathological findings of an experimental pneumonectomy procedure in 3 A. mexicanum exhibiting abnormal buoyancy. The 3 pet A. mexicanum were adults, and their respective ages and body weights were 1, 5, and 6 yr and 48, 55, and 56 g. Two of these cases were confirmed via radiographic examination to have free air within the body cavity, and all 3 cases were found via ultrasonography to have an acoustic shadow within the body cavity and were diagnosed with pneumocoelom. Lung perforations were detected macroscopically in 2 of the cases, and all 3 cases had fibrosis in the caudal ends of the lungs. Removal of the lung lesions eliminated the abnormal buoyancy in all 3 cases. We concluded that air had leaked into the body cavity from the lungs, and we propose that lung lesions are an important cause of buoyancy disorders in A. mexicanum.

A design methodology for neutral buoyancy simulation of space operations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Akin, David L.

1988-01-01

Neutral buoyancy has often been used in the past for EVA development activities, but little has been done to provide an analytical understanding of the environment and its correlation with space. This paper covers a set of related research topics at the MIT Space Systems Laboratory, dealing with the modeling of the space and underwater environments, validation of the models through testing in neutral buoyancy, parabolic flight, and space flight experiments, and applications of the models to gain a better design methodology for creating meaningful neutral buoyancy simulations. Examples covered include simulation validation criteria for human body dynamics, and for applied torques in a beam rotation task, which is the pacing crew operation for EVA structural assembly. Extensions of the dynamics models are presented for powered vehicles in the underwater environment, and examples given from the MIT Space Telerobotics Research Program, including the Beam Assembly Teleoperator and the Multimode Proximity Operations Device. Future expansions of the modeling theory are also presented, leading to remote vehicles which behave in neutral buoyancy exactly as the modeled system would in space.

The influence of meridional ice transport on Europa's ocean stratification and heat content

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhu, Peiyun; Manucharyan, Georgy E.; Thompson, Andrew F.; Goodman, Jason C.; Vance, Steven D.

2017-06-01

Jupiter's moon Europa likely hosts a saltwater ocean beneath its icy surface. Geothermal heating and rotating convection in the ocean may drive a global overturning circulation that redistributes heat vertically and meridionally, preferentially warming the ice shell at the equator. Here we assess the previously unconstrained influence of ocean-ice coupling on Europa's ocean stratification and heat transport. We demonstrate that a relatively fresh layer can form at the ice-ocean interface due to a meridional ice transport forced by the differential ice shell heating between the equator and the poles. We provide analytical and numerical solutions for the layer's characteristics, highlighting their sensitivity to critical ocean parameters. For a weakly turbulent and highly saline ocean, a strong buoyancy gradient at the base of the freshwater layer can suppress vertical tracer exchange with the deeper ocean. As a result, the freshwater layer permits relatively warm deep ocean temperatures.

The influence of meridional ice transport on Europa's ocean stratification and heat content

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhu, P.; Manucharyan, G.; Thompson, A. F.; Goodman, J. C.; Vance, S.

2017-12-01

Jupiter's moon Europa likely hosts a saltwater ocean beneath its icy surface. Geothermal heating and rotating convection in the ocean may drive a global overturning circulation that redistributes heat vertically and meridionally, preferentially warming the ice shell at the equator. Here we assess thepreviously unconstrained influence of ocean-ice coupling on Europa's ocean stratification and heat transport. We demonstrate that a relatively fresh layer can form at the ice-ocean interface due to a meridional ice transport forced by the differential ice shell heating between the equator and the poles. We provide analytical and numerical solutions for the layer's characteristics, highlighting their sensitivity to critical ocean parameters. For a weakly turbulent and highly saline ocean, a strong buoyancy gradient at the base of the freshwater layer can suppress vertical tracer exchange with the deeper ocean. As a result, the freshwater layer permits relatively warm deep ocean temperatures.

Density-ratio effects on buoyancy-driven variable-density turbulent mixing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aslangil, Denis; Livescu, Daniel; Banerjee, Arindam

2017-11-01

Density-ratio effects on the turbulent mixing of two incompressible, miscible fluids with different densities subject to constant acceleration are studied by means of high-resolution Direct Numerical Simulations. In a triply periodic domain, turbulence is generated by stirring in response to the differential buoyancy forces within the flow. Later, as the fluids become molecularly mixed, dissipation starts to overcome turbulence generation by bouyancy. Thus, the flow evolution includes both turbulence growth and decay, and it displays features present in the core region of the mixing layer of the Rayleigh-Taylor as well as Richtmyer-Meshkov instabilities. We extend the previous studies by investigating a broad range of density-ratio, from 1-14.4:1, corresponding to Atwood numbers of 0.05-0.87. Here, we focus on the Atwood number dependence of mixing-efficiency, that is defined based on the energy-conversion ratios from potential energy to total and turbulent kinetic energies, the decay characteristics of buoyancy-assisted variable-density homogeneous turbulence, and the effects of high density-ratios on the turbulence structure and mixing process. Authors acknowledge financial support from DOE-SSAA (DE-NA0003195) and NSF CAREER (#1453056) awards.

PLANET-DISK INTERACTION IN THREE DIMENSIONS: THE IMPORTANCE OF BUOYANCY WAVES

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Zhu Zhaohuan; Stone, James M.; Rafikov, Roman R., E-mail: zhzhu@astro.princeton.edu, E-mail: jstone@astro.princeton.edu, E-mail: rrr@astro.princeton.edu

2012-10-20

We carry out local three-dimensional (3D) hydrodynamic simulations of planet-disk interaction in stratified disks with varied thermodynamic properties. We find that whenever the Brunt-Vaeisaelae frequency (N) in the disk is non-zero, the planet exerts a strong torque on the disk in the vicinity of the planet, with a reduction in the traditional 'torque cutoff'. In particular, this is true for adiabatic perturbations in disks with isothermal density structure, as should be typical for centrally irradiated protoplanetary disks. We identify this torque with buoyancy waves, which are excited (when N is non-zero) close to the planet, within one disk scale heightmore » from its orbit. These waves give rise to density perturbations with a characteristic 3D spatial pattern which is in close agreement with the linear dispersion relation. The torque due to these waves can amount to as much as several tens of percent of the total planetary torque, which is not expected based on analytical calculations limited to axisymmetric or low-m modes. Buoyancy waves should be ubiquitous around planets in the inner, dense regions of protoplanetary disks, where they might possibly affect planet migration.« less

On the general concept of buoyancy in sedimentation and ultracentrifugation.

PubMed

Piazza, Roberto; Buzzaccaro, Stefano; Secchi, Eleonora; Parola, Alberto

2013-08-02

Gravity or ultracentrifuge settling of colloidal particles and macromolecules usually involves several disperse species, either because natural and industrial colloids display a large size polydispersity, or because additives are put in on purpose to allow for density-based fractionation of the suspension. Such 'macromolecular crowding', however, may have surprising effects on sedimentation, for it strongly affects the buoyant force felt by a settling particle. Here we show that, as a matter of fact, the standard Archimedes' principle is just a limiting law, valid only for mesoscopic particles settling in a molecular fluid, and we obtain a fully general expression for the actual buoyancy force providing a microscopic basis to the general thermodynamic analysis of sedimentation in multi-component mixtures. The effective buoyancy also depends on the particle shape, being much more pronounced for thin rods and discs. Our model is successfully tested on simple colloidal mixtures, and used to predict rather unexpected effects, such as denser particles floating on top of a lighter fluid, which we actually observe in targeted experiments. This 'generalized Archimedes principle' may provide a tool to devise novel separation methods sensitive to particle size and shape.

On the general concept of buoyancy in sedimentation and ultracentrifugation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Piazza, Roberto; Buzzaccaro, Stefano; Secchi, Eleonora; Parola, Alberto

2013-08-01

Gravity or ultracentrifuge settling of colloidal particles and macromolecules usually involves several disperse species, either because natural and industrial colloids display a large size polydispersity, or because additives are put in on purpose to allow for density-based fractionation of the suspension. Such ‘macromolecular crowding’, however, may have surprising effects on sedimentation, for it strongly affects the buoyant force felt by a settling particle. Here we show that, as a matter of fact, the standard Archimedes' principle is just a limiting law, valid only for mesoscopic particles settling in a molecular fluid, and we obtain a fully general expression for the actual buoyancy force providing a microscopic basis to the general thermodynamic analysis of sedimentation in multi-component mixtures. The effective buoyancy also depends on the particle shape, being much more pronounced for thin rods and discs. Our model is successfully tested on simple colloidal mixtures, and used to predict rather unexpected effects, such as denser particles floating on top of a lighter fluid, which we actually observe in targeted experiments. This ‘generalized Archimedes principle’ may provide a tool to devise novel separation methods sensitive to particle size and shape.

Varying the effective buoyancy of cells using magnetic force

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Guevorkian, Karine; Valles, James M.

2004-06-01

We introduce a magnetic force buoyancy variation (MFBV) technique that employs intense inhomogeneous magnetic fields to vary the effective buoyancy of cells and other diamagnetic systems in solution. Nonswimming Paramecia have been suspended, forced to sediment and driven to rise in solution using MFBV. Details of their response to MFBV have been used to determine the magnetic susceptibility of a single Paramecium. The use of MFBV as a means by which to suspend cell cultures indefinitely is also described.

The effect of small temperature gradients on flow in a continuous flow electrophoresis chamber

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Rhodes, P. H.; Snyder, R. S.

1982-01-01

Continuous flow electrophoresis employs an electric field to separate biological cells suspended in a flowing liquid buffer solution. Good separations based on differences in electrophoretic mobility are obtained only when a unidirectional flow is maintained. The desired flow has a parabolic structure in the narrow dimension of the chamber and is uniform acros the width, except near the edges where the no-slip condition prevails. However, because of buoyancy, very small laterall or axial temperature gradients deform the flow significantly. The results of experiments conducted with a specially instrumented chamber show the origin and structure of the buoyancy-driven perturbations. It is found that very small temperature gradients can disturb the flow significantly, as was predicted by earlier theoretical work.

Electrical Aspects of Flames in Microgravity Combustion

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dunn-Rankin, D.; Strayer, B.; Weinberg, F.; Carleton, F.

1999-01-01

A principal characteristic of combustion in microgravity is the absence of buoyancy driven flows. In some cases, such as for spherically symmetrical droplet burning, the absence of buoyancy is desirable for matching analytical treatments with experiments. In other cases, however, it can be more valuable to arbitrarily control the flame's convective environment independent of the environmental gravitational condition. To accomplish this, we propose the use of ion generated winds driven by electric fields to control local convection of flames. Such control can produce reduced buoyancy (effectively zero buoyancy) conditions in the laboratory in 1-g facilitating a wide range of laser diagnostics that can probe the system without special packaging required for drop tower or flight tests. In addition, the electric field generated ionic winds allow varying gravitational convection equivalents even if the test occurs in reduced gravity environments.

Front fingering and complex dynamics driven by the interaction of buoyancy and diffusive instabilities.

PubMed

D'Hernoncourt, J; Merkin, J H; De Wit, A

2007-09-01

Traveling fronts can become transversally unstable either because of a diffusive instability arising when the key variables diffuse at sufficiently different rates or because of a buoyancy-driven Rayleigh-Taylor mechanism when the density jump across the front is statically unfavorable. The interaction between such diffusive and buoyancy instabilities of fronts is analyzed theoretically for a simple model system. Linear stability analysis and nonlinear simulations show that their interplay changes considerably the stability properties with regard to the pure Rayleigh-Taylor or diffusive instabilities of fronts. In particular, an instability scenario can arise which triggers convection around statically stable fronts as a result of differential diffusion. Moreover, spatiotemporal chaos can be observed when both buoyancy and diffusive effects cooperate to destabilize the front. Experimental conditions to test our predictions are suggested.

Thermal buoyancy on Venus: Preliminary results of finite element modeling

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Burt, J. D.; Head, James W., III

1992-01-01

Enhanced surface temperatures and a thinner lithosphere on Venus relative to Earth have been cited as leading to increased lithospheric buoyancy. This would limit or prevent subduction on Venus and favor the construction of thickened crust through underthrusting. In order to evaluate the conditions distinguishing between underthrusting and subduction, we have modeled the thermal and buoyancy consequences of the subduction end member. This study considers the fate of a slab from the time it starts to subduct, but bypasses the question of subduction initiation. Thermal changes in slabs subducting into a mantle having a range of initial geotherms are used to predict density changes and thus their overall buoyancy. Finite element modeling is then applied in a first approximation of the assessment of the relative rates of subduction as compared to the buoyant rise of the slab through a viscous mantle.

Dynamical buoyancy of hydrodynamic eddies. [in solar atmosphere

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Parker, E. N.

1991-01-01

The dynamical pressure reduction within a vortex tube produces both a tension along the tube and a general buoyancy, analogous to magnetic flux tubes. The dynamical buoyancy causes convective cells to rise at speeds comparable to the rms fluid velocity within the cell. Consequently, the convective cells in a stratified atmosphere are more active than indicated by the standard anelastic approximation. The coherent convective cells at each level actively crowd upward into the convective cells above, elbowing weaker cells out of the way and flattening themselves and others against the upper surface of the convective region. These effects can be seen in the recent SOUP observations of the solar granulation. Deeper in the convective zone the inhomogeneity of the buoyancy may explain the random character of the convective motions that turns up in recent numerical simulations.

The dominant role of Arctic surface buoyancy fluxes for AMOC slow-down on multi-decadal timescales

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fedorov, A. V.; Sevellec, F.

2016-12-01

One of the most dramatic consequences of the ongoing climate change is the reduction in the Arctic sea ice cover observed over the past few decades. This sea ice loss increases net heat flux into the ocean and at the same time exposes the ocean to additional freshwater flux from the atmosphere. These two effects imply positive anomalies in surface buoyancy fluxes over the Arctic ocean. In this study we estimate the sensitivity of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) to global changes in surface buoyancy forcing, especially in the context of changes in the Arctic. We find that, whereas on decadal timescale the subpolar region (especially east and south of Greenland) is the primarily driver of AMOC weakening due to positive buoyancy fluxes, on multidecadal timescales (longer than 20 years) it is the Arctic region that largely controls the AMOC slow-down. On timescales close to one century surface buoyancy fluxes over the Arctic ocean are nearly twice as effective for weakening the AMOC than those in the subpolar North Atlantic. We also find that the anomalous surface buoyancy fluxes in the Arctic can efficiently weaken poleward heat transport in the North Atlantic on a basin scale (i.e., between 25oN and 50oN). We conclude that such remote control of the AMOC intensity and heat transport by the Arctic ocean is a robust feature of climate change on multi-decadal timescales.

On total turbulent energy and the passive and active role of buoyancy in turbulent momentum and mass transfer.

PubMed

de Nijs, Michel A J; Pietrzak, Julie D

Measurements of turbulent fluctuations of horizontal and vertical components of velocity, salinity and suspended particulate matter are presented. Turbulent Prandtl numbers are found to increase with stratification and to become larger than 1. Consequently, the vertical turbulent mass transport is suppressed by buoyancy forces, before the turbulent kinetic energy (TKE) and vertical turbulent momentum exchange are inhibited. With increasing stratification, the buoyancy fluxes do not cease, instead they become countergradient. We find that buoyantly driven motions play an active role in the transfer of mass. This is in agreement with trends derived from Monin-Obukhov scaling. For positive Richardson flux numbers (Ri f ), the log velocity profile in the near-bed layer requires correction with a drag reduction. For negative Ri f , the log velocity profile should be corrected with a drag increase, with increasing |Ri f |. This highlights the active role played by buoyancy in momentum transfer and the production of TKE. However, the data do not appear to entirely follow Monin-Obukhov scaling. This is consistent with the notion that the turbulence field is not in equilibrium. The large stratification results in the decay of turbulence and countergradient buoyancy fluxes act to restore equilibrium in the energy budget. This implies that there is a finite adjustment timescale of the turbulence field to changes in velocity shear and density stratification. The energy transfers associated with the source and sink function of the buoyancy flux can be modeled with the concept of total turbulent energy.

Buoyancy characteristics of the bloater (Coregonus hoyi) in relation to patterns of vertical migration and acoustic backscattering

USGS Publications Warehouse

Fleischer, Guy W.; TeWinkel, Leslie M.

1998-01-01

Acoustic studies in Lake Michigan found that bloaters (Coregonus hoyi) were less reflective per size than the other major pelagic species. This difference in in situ acoustic backscattering could indicate that the deep-water bloaters have compressed swimbladders for much of their vertical range with related implications on buoyancy. To test this hypothesis, the buoyancy characteristics of bloaters were determined with fish placed in a cage that was lowered to bottom and monitored with an underwater camera. We found bloaters were positively buoyant near surface, neutrally buoyant at intermediate strata, and negatively buoyant near bottom. This pattern was consistent for the range of depths bloaters occur. The depth of neutral buoyancy (near the 50-n strata) corresponds with the maximum extent of vertical migration for bloaters observed in acoustic surveys. Fish below this depth would be negatively buoyant which supports our contention that bloaters deeper in the water column have compressed swimbladders. Understanding the buoyancy characteristics of pelagic fishes will help to predict the effects of vertical migration on target strength measurement and confirms the use of acoustics as a tool to identify and quantify the ecological phenomenon of vertical migration.

Buoyancy driven mixing of miscible fluids by volumetric energy deposition of microwaves.

PubMed

Wachtor, Adam J; Mocko, Veronika; Williams, Darrick J; Goertz, Matthew P; Jebrail, Farzaneh F

2013-01-01

An experiment that seeks to investigate buoyancy driven mixing of miscible fluids by microwave volumetric energy deposition is presented. The experiment involves the use of a light, non-polar fluid that initially rests on top of a heavier fluid which is more polar. Microwaves preferentially heat the polar fluid, and its density decreases due to thermal expansion. As the microwave heating continues, the density of the lower fluid eventually becomes less than that of the upper, and buoyancy driven Rayleigh-Taylor mixing ensues. The choice of fluids is crucial to the success of the experiment, and a description is given of numerous fluid combinations considered and characterized. After careful consideration, the miscible pair of toluene/tetrahydrofuran (THF) was determined as having the best potential for successful volumetric energy deposition buoyancy driven mixing. Various single fluid calibration experiments were performed to facilitate the development of a heating theory. Thereafter, results from two-fluid mixing experiments are presented that demonstrate the capability of this novel Rayleigh-Taylor driven experiment. Particular interest is paid to the onset of buoyancy driven mixing and unusual aspects of the experiment in the context of typical Rayleigh-Taylor driven mixing.

EVA Development and Verification Testing at NASA's Neutral Buoyancy Laboratory

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jairala, Juniper C.; Durkin, Robert; Marak, Ralph J.; Sipila, Stepahnie A.; Ney, Zane A.; Parazynski, Scott E.; Thomason, Arthur H.

2012-01-01

As an early step in the preparation for future Extravehicular Activities (EVAs), astronauts perform neutral buoyancy testing to develop and verify EVA hardware and operations. Neutral buoyancy demonstrations at NASA Johnson Space Center's Sonny Carter Training Facility to date have primarily evaluated assembly and maintenance tasks associated with several elements of the International Space Station (ISS). With the retirement of the Shuttle, completion of ISS assembly, and introduction of commercial players for human transportation to space, evaluations at the Neutral Buoyancy Laboratory (NBL) will take on a new focus. Test objectives are selected for their criticality, lack of previous testing, or design changes that justify retesting. Assembly tasks investigated are performed using procedures developed by the flight hardware providers and the Mission Operations Directorate (MOD). Orbital Replacement Unit (ORU) maintenance tasks are performed using a more systematic set of procedures, EVA Concept of Operations for the International Space Station (JSC-33408), also developed by the MOD. This paper describes the requirements and process for performing a neutral buoyancy test, including typical hardware and support equipment requirements, personnel and administrative resource requirements, examples of ISS systems and operations that are evaluated, and typical operational objectives that are evaluated.

How Informative are the Vertical Buoyancy and the Prone Gliding Tests to Assess Young Swimmers’ Hydrostatic and Hydrodynamic Profiles?

PubMed Central

Barbosa, Tiago M.; Costa, Mário J.; Morais, Jorge E; Moreira, Marc; Silva, António J.; Marinho, Daniel A.

2012-01-01

The aim of this research was to develop a path-flow analysis model to highlight the relationships between buoyancy and prone gliding tests and some selected anthropometrical and biomechanical variables. Thirty-eight young male swimmers (12.97 ± 1.05 years old) with several competitive levels were evaluated. It were assessed the body mass, height, fat mass, body surface area, vertical buoyancy, prone gliding after wall push-off, stroke length, stroke frequency and velocity after a maximal 25 [m] swim. The confirmatory model included the body mass, height, fat mass, prone gliding test, stroke length, stroke frequency and velocity. All theoretical paths were verified except for the vertical buoyancy test that did not present any relationship with anthropometrical and biomechanical variables nor with the prone gliding test. The good-of-fit from the confirmatory path-flow model, assessed with the standardized root mean square residuals (SRMR), is considered as being close to the cut-off value, but even so not suitable of the theory (SRMR = 0.11). As a conclusion, vertical buoyancy and prone gliding tests are not the best techniques to assess the swimmer’s hydrostatic and hydrodynamic profile, respectively. PMID:23486528

Transition to turbulence in stratified shear flow: experiments in an inclined square duct

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Meyer, Colin; Linden, Paul

2013-11-01

We describe laboratory experiments of countercurrent stratified shear flow in an inclined square duct. To achieve this, a long water tank was partitioned into regions of higher and lower density saltwater that are connected by an inclined square duct. The flow regime was characterized to be turbulent, intermittent, Holmboe or laminar as a function of the duct inclination, θ, and the density difference, Δρ , between the two reservoirs. The density difference and duct angle were systematically varied and a phase plane of flow regime was developed. The transition between the interrmittent regime and turbulence was experimentally determined to occur at θΔρ ~= 20 [degrees kg m-3]. This critical combination of parameters fits into the buoyancy-compensated Reynolds number scaling proposed by Brethouwer et al. (J. Fluid Mech., 2007). The turbulent interfacial thickness was found to be a function of the inclination angle, which can be predicted using the buoyancy lengthscale from Waite and Bartello (J. Fluid Mech., 2004) and others. Furthermore, we measured the density profiles at multiple points along the duct, and using these profiles, we modeled the entrainment at the interface. Support provided by the Winston Churchill Foundation of the United States.

Subsurface storage of freshwater in South Florida; a digital analysis of recoverability

USGS Publications Warehouse

Merritt, Michael L.

1983-01-01

As part of a feasibility study of cyclic freshwater injection, digital models were implemented to analyze the relation of recovery efficiency to various hydrogeologic conditions which could prevail in brackish aquifers and to various management regimes. The analyses implemented an approach in which the control for sensitivity testing was a hypothetical aquifer representative of potential injection zones in south Florida, and parameter variations in sensitivity tests represented possible variations in aquifer conditions in the area. The permeability of the aquifer determined whether buoyancy stratification could reduce recovery efficiency. The range of permeability leading to buoyancy stratification became lower as resident fluid salinity increased. Thus, recovery efficiency was optimized by both low permeability and low resident fluid density. High levels of simulated hydrodynamic dispersion led to the lowest estimates of recovery efficiency. Advection by regional flow within the artesian injection zone could significantly affect recovery efficiency, depending upon the storage period, the volume injected, and site-specific hydraulic characteristics. Recovery efficiency was unrelated to the rate of injection or withdrawal or to the degree of penetration of permeable layers, and improved with successive cycles of injection and recovery. (USGS)

Assessing uncertainty in the turbulent upper-ocean mixed layer using an unstructured finite-element solver

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pacheco, Luz; Smith, Katherine; Hamlington, Peter; Niemeyer, Kyle

2017-11-01

Vertical transport flux in the ocean upper mixed layer has recently been attributed to submesoscale currents, which occur at scales on the order of kilometers in the horizontal direction. These phenomena, which include fronts and mixed-layer instabilities, have been of particular interest due to the effect of turbulent mixing on nutrient transport, facilitating phytoplankton blooms. We study these phenomena using a non-hydrostatic, large eddy simulation for submesoscale currents in the ocean, developed using the extensible, open-source finite element platform FEniCs. Our model solves the standard Boussinesq Euler equations in variational form using the finite element method. FEniCs enables the use of parallel computing on modern systems for efficient computing time, and is suitable for unstructured grids where irregular topography can be considered in the future. The solver will be verified against the well-established NCAR-LES model and validated against observational data. For the verification with NCAR-LES, the velocity, pressure, and buoyancy fields are compared through a surface-wind-driven, open-ocean case. We use this model to study the impacts of uncertainties in the model parameters, such as near-surface buoyancy flux and secondary circulation, and discuss implications.

Near-Surface Effects of Free Atmosphere Stratification in Free Convection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mellado, Juan Pedro; van Heerwaarden, Chiel C.; Garcia, Jade Rachele

2016-04-01

The effect of a linear stratification in the free atmosphere on near-surface properties in a free convective boundary layer (CBL) is investigated by means of direct numerical simulation. We consider two regimes: a neutral stratification regime, which represents a CBL that grows into a residual layer, and a strong stratification regime, which represents the equilibrium (quasi-steady) entrainment regime. We find that the mean buoyancy varies as z^{-1/3}, in agreement with classical similarity theory. However, the root-mean-square (r.m.s.) of the buoyancy fluctuation and the r.m.s. of the vertical velocity vary as z^{-0.45} and ln z, respectively, both in disagreement with theory. These scaling laws are independent of the stratification regime, but the depth over which they are valid depends on the stratification. In the strong stratification regime, this depth is about 20 to 25 % of the CBL depth instead of the commonly used 10 %, which we only observe under neutral conditions. In both regimes, the near-surface flow structure can be interpreted as a hierarchy of circulations attached to the surface. Based on this structure, we define a new near-surface layer in free convection, the plume-merging layer, that is conceptually different from the constant-flux layer. The varying depth of the plume-merging layer depending on the stratification accounts for the varying depth of validity of the scaling laws. These findings imply that the buoyancy transfer law needed in mixed-layer and single-column models is well described by the classical similarity theory, independent of the stratification in the free atmosphere, even though other near-surface properties, such as the r.m.s. of the buoyancy fluctuation and the r.m.s. of the vertical velocity, are inconsistent with that theory.

Isostasy for Geoscience Labs.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Diecchio, Richard Joseph

1995-01-01

Presents simple laboratory experiments to help students understand the principle of buoyancy and mass balance. Buoyancy experiments can simulate lithospheric mass balance, crustal loading and unloading, and can be used to model differences between the oceanic and continental lithosphere. (MKR)

Breaking the BBC (Buoyancy Barriers to Cryovolcanism)

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

McGovern, P. J.; White, O. L.

2018-06-01

Like Australian table wines, Cryovolcanism has been poo-poohed, because of a perceived negative buoyancy problem. Here we point out that several basaltic planets have overcome far worse barriers, and calculate a scenario for cyrovolcanism on Pluto.

Flows and Stratification of an Enclosure Containing Both Localised and Vertically Distributed Sources of Buoyancy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Partridge, Jamie; Linden, Paul

2013-11-01

We examine the flows and stratification established in a naturally ventilated enclosure containing both a localised and vertically distributed source of buoyancy. The enclosure is ventilated through upper and lower openings which connect the space to an external ambient. Small scale laboratory experiments were carried out with water as the working medium and buoyancy being driven directly by temperature differences. A point source plume gave localised heating while the distributed source was driven by a controllable heater mat located in the side wall of the enclosure. The transient temperatures, as well as steady state temperature profiles, were recorded and are reported here. The temperature profiles inside the enclosure were found to be dependent on the effective opening area A*, a combination of the upper and lower openings, and the ratio of buoyancy fluxes from the distributed and localised source Ψ =Bw/Bp . Industrial CASE award with ARUP.

Buoyancy Effects in Turbulent Jet Flames in Crossflow

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Boxx, Isaac; Idicheria, Cherian; Clemens, Noel

2003-11-01

The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of buoyancy on the structure of turbulent, non-premixed hydrocarbon jet-flames in crossflow (JFICF). This was accomplished using a small jet-in-crossflow facility which can be oriented at a variety of angles with respect to the gravity vector. This facility enables us to alter the relative influence of buoyancy on the JFICF without altering the jet-exit Reynolds number, momentum flux ratio or the geometry of the system. Results are compared to similar, but non-buoyant, JFICF studied in microgravity. Departures of jet-centerline trajectory from the well-known power-law scaling of turbulent JFICF were used to explore the transition from a buoyancy-influenced regime to a momentum dominated one. The primary diagnostic was CCD imaging of soot-luminosity. We present results on ethylene jet flames with jet-exit Reynolds numbers of 1770 to 8000 and momentum flux ratios of 5 to 13.

Buoyancy increase and drag-reduction through a simple superhydrophobic coating.

PubMed

Hwang, Gi Byoung; Patir, Adnan; Page, Kristopher; Lu, Yao; Allan, Elaine; Parkin, Ivan P

2017-06-08

A superhydrophobic paint was fabricated using 1H,1H,2H,2H-perfluorooctyltriethoxysilane (PFOTES), TiO 2 nanoparticles and ethanol. The paint has potential for aquatic application of a superhydrophobic coating as it induces increased buoyancy and drag reduction. Buoyance testing showed that the reduction of surface energy by superhydrophobic coating made it feasible that glass, a high density material, was supported by the surface tension of water. In a miniature boat sailing test, it was shown that the low energy surface treatment decreased the adhesion of water molecules to the surface of the boat resulting in a reduction of the drag force. Additionally, a robust superhydrophobic surface was fabricated through layer-by-layer coating using adhesive double side tape and the paint, and after a 100 cm abrasion test with sand paper, the surface still retained its water repellency, enhanced buoyancy and drag reduction.

How did Archimedes discover the law of buoyancy by experiment?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Kuroki, Hidetaka

2016-03-01

After Archimedes and Vitruvius era, for more than 2000 years, it has been believed that the displaced water measurement of golden crown is impossible, and at his Eureka moment, Archimedes discovered the law of buoyancy (Proposition 7 of his principles) and proved the theft of a goldsmith by weighing the golden crown in water. A previous study showed that a small amount of displaced water was able to be measured with enough accuracy by the introduced method. Archimedes measured the weight of displaced water. He did not find the law of buoyancy but rather specific gravity of things at the moment. After which, Archimedes continued to measure the specific gravity of various solids and fluids. Through these measurements, he reached the discovery of the law of buoyancy directly by experiment. In this paper, the process to the discovery of Archimedes' principle (Proposition 5) is presented.

Numerical Simulations of Buoyancy Effects in low Density Gas Jets

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Satti, R. P.; Pasumarthi, K. S.; Agrawal, A. K.

2004-01-01

This paper deals with the computational analysis of buoyancy effects in the near field of an isothermal helium jet injected into quiescent ambient air environment. The transport equations of helium mass fraction coupled with the conservation equations of mixture mass and momentum were solved using a staggered grid finite volume method. Laminar, axisymmetric, unsteady flow conditions were considered for the analysis. An orthogonal system with non-uniform grids was used to capture the instability phenomena. Computations were performed for Earth gravity and during transition from Earth to different gravitational levels. The flow physics was described by simultaneous visualizations of velocity and concentration fields at Earth and microgravity conditions. Computed results were validated by comparing with experimental data substantiating that buoyancy induced global flow oscillations present in Earth gravity are absent in microgravity. The dependence of oscillation frequency and amplitude on gravitational forcing was presented to further quantify the buoyancy effects.

EVA Development and Verification Testing at NASA's Neutral Buoyancy Laboratory

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jairala, Juniper; Durkin, Robert

2012-01-01

As an early step in preparing for future EVAs, astronauts perform neutral buoyancy testing to develop and verify EVA hardware and operations. To date, neutral buoyancy demonstrations at NASA JSC’s Sonny Carter Training Facility have primarily evaluated assembly and maintenance tasks associated with several elements of the ISS. With the retirement of the Space Shuttle, completion of ISS assembly, and introduction of commercial participants for human transportation into space, evaluations at the NBL will take on a new focus. In this session, Juniper Jairala briefly discussed the design of the NBL and, in more detail, described the requirements and process for performing a neutral buoyancy test, including typical hardware and support equipment requirements, personnel and administrative resource requirements, examples of ISS systems and operations that are evaluated, and typical operational objectives that are evaluated. Robert Durkin discussed the new and potential types of uses for the NBL, including those by non-NASA external customers.

EVA Development and Verification Testing at NASA's Neutral Buoyancy Laboratory

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Jairala, Juniper; Durkin, Robert

2012-01-01

As an early step in preparing for future EVAs, astronauts perform neutral buoyancy testing to develop and verify EVA hardware and operations. To date, neutral buoyancy demonstrations at NASA JSC's Sonny Carter Training Facility have primarily evaluated assembly and maintenance tasks associated with several elements of the ISS. With the retirement of the Space Shuttle, completion of ISS assembly, and introduction of commercial participants for human transportation into space, evaluations at the NBL will take on a new focus. In this session, Juniper Jairala briefly discussed the design of the NBL and, in more detail, described the requirements and process for performing a neutral buoyancy test, including typical hardware and support equipment requirements, personnel and administrative resource requirements, examples of ISS systems and operations that are evaluated, and typical operational objectives that are evaluated. Robert Durkin discussed the new and potential types of uses for the NBL, including those by non-NASA external customers.

Feedback mechanisms of shallow convective clouds in a warmer climate as demonstrated by changes in buoyancy

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Dagan, G.; Koren, I.; Altaratz, O.; Feingold, G.

2018-05-01

Cloud feedbacks could influence significantly the overall response of the climate system to global warming. Here we study the response of warm convective clouds to a uniform temperature change under constant relative humidity (RH) conditions. We show that an increase in temperature drives competing effects at the cloud scale: a reduction in the thermal buoyancy term and an increase in the humidity buoyancy term. Both effects are driven by the increased contrast in the water vapor content between the cloud and its environment, under warming with constant RH. The increase in the moisture content contrast between the cloud and its environment enhances the evaporation at the cloud margins, increases the entrainment, and acts to cool the cloud. Hence, there is a reduction in the thermal buoyancy term, despite the fact that theoretically this term should increase.

The Goal Specificity Effect on Strategy Use and Instructional Efficiency during Computer-Based Scientific Discovery Learning

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kunsting, Josef; Wirth, Joachim; Paas, Fred

2011-01-01

Using a computer-based scientific discovery learning environment on buoyancy in fluids we investigated the "effects of goal specificity" (nonspecific goals vs. specific goals) for two goal types (problem solving goals vs. learning goals) on "strategy use" and "instructional efficiency". Our empirical findings close an important research gap,…

Unexpected Positive Buoyancy in Deep Sea Sharks, Hexanchus griseus, and a Echinorhinus cookei

PubMed Central

Nakamura, Itsumi; Meyer, Carl G.; Sato, Katsufumi

2015-01-01

We do not expect non air-breathing aquatic animals to exhibit positive buoyancy. Sharks, for example, rely on oil-filled livers instead of gas-filled swim bladders to increase their buoyancy, but are nonetheless ubiquitously regarded as either negatively or neutrally buoyant. Deep-sea sharks have particularly large, oil-filled livers, and are believed to be neutrally buoyant in their natural habitat, but this has never been confirmed. To empirically determine the buoyancy status of two species of deep-sea sharks (bluntnose sixgill sharks, Hexanchus griseus, and a prickly shark, Echinorhinus cookei) in their natural habitat, we used accelerometer-magnetometer data loggers to measure their swimming performance. Both species of deep-sea sharks showed similar diel vertical migrations: they swam at depths of 200–300 m at night and deeper than 500 m during the day. Ambient water temperature was around 15°C at 200–300 m but below 7°C at depths greater than 500 m. During vertical movements, all deep-sea sharks showed higher swimming efforts during descent than ascent to maintain a given swimming speed, and were able to glide uphill for extended periods (several minutes), indicating that these deep-sea sharks are in fact positively buoyant in their natural habitats. This positive buoyancy may adaptive for stealthy hunting (i.e. upward gliding to surprise prey from underneath) or may facilitate evening upward migrations when muscle temperatures are coolest, and swimming most sluggish, after spending the day in deep, cold water. Positive buoyancy could potentially be widespread in fish conducting daily vertical migration in deep-sea habitats. PMID:26061525

Unexpected Positive Buoyancy in Deep Sea Sharks, Hexanchus griseus, and a Echinorhinus cookei.

PubMed

Nakamura, Itsumi; Meyer, Carl G; Sato, Katsufumi

2015-01-01

We do not expect non air-breathing aquatic animals to exhibit positive buoyancy. Sharks, for example, rely on oil-filled livers instead of gas-filled swim bladders to increase their buoyancy, but are nonetheless ubiquitously regarded as either negatively or neutrally buoyant. Deep-sea sharks have particularly large, oil-filled livers, and are believed to be neutrally buoyant in their natural habitat, but this has never been confirmed. To empirically determine the buoyancy status of two species of deep-sea sharks (bluntnose sixgill sharks, Hexanchus griseus, and a prickly shark, Echinorhinus cookei) in their natural habitat, we used accelerometer-magnetometer data loggers to measure their swimming performance. Both species of deep-sea sharks showed similar diel vertical migrations: they swam at depths of 200-300 m at night and deeper than 500 m during the day. Ambient water temperature was around 15°C at 200-300 m but below 7°C at depths greater than 500 m. During vertical movements, all deep-sea sharks showed higher swimming efforts during descent than ascent to maintain a given swimming speed, and were able to glide uphill for extended periods (several minutes), indicating that these deep-sea sharks are in fact positively buoyant in their natural habitats. This positive buoyancy may adaptive for stealthy hunting (i.e. upward gliding to surprise prey from underneath) or may facilitate evening upward migrations when muscle temperatures are coolest, and swimming most sluggish, after spending the day in deep, cold water. Positive buoyancy could potentially be widespread in fish conducting daily vertical migration in deep-sea habitats.

The dynamical control of subduction parameters on surface topography

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Crameri, F.; Lithgow-Bertelloni, C. R.; Tackley, P. J.

2017-04-01

The long-wavelength surface deflection of Earth's outermost rocky shell is mainly controlled by large-scale dynamic processes like isostasy or mantle flow. The largest topographic amplitudes are therefore observed at plate boundaries due to the presence of large thermal heterogeneities and strong tectonic forces. Distinct vertical surface deflections are particularly apparent at convergent plate boundaries mostly due to the convergence and asymmetric sinking of the plates. Having a mantle convection model with a free surface that is able to reproduce both realistic single-sided subduction and long-wavelength surface topography self-consistently, we are now able to better investigate this interaction. We separate the topographic signal into distinct features and quantify the individual topographic contribution of several controlling subduction parameters. Results are diagnosed by splitting the topographic signal into isostatic and residual components, and by considering various physical aspects like viscous dissipation during plate bending. Performing several systematic suites of experiments, we are then able to quantify the topographic impact of the buoyancy, rheology, and geometry of the subduction-zone system to each and every topographic feature at a subduction zone and to provide corresponding scaling laws. We identify slab dip and, slightly less importantly, slab buoyancy as the major agents controlling surface topography at subduction zones on Earth. Only the island-arc high and the back-arc depression extent are mainly controlled by plate strength. Overall, his modeling study sets the basis to better constrain deep-seated mantle structures and their physical properties via the observed surface topography on present-day Earth and back through time.

Validation of buoyancy driven spectral tensor model using HATS data

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chougule, A.; Mann, J.; Kelly, M.; Larsen, G. C.

2016-09-01

We present a homogeneous spectral tensor model for wind velocity and temperature fluctuations, driven by mean vertical shear and mean temperature gradient. Results from the model, including one-dimensional velocity and temperature spectra and the associated co-spectra, are shown in this paper. The model also reproduces two-point statistics, such as coherence and phases, via cross-spectra between two points separated in space. Model results are compared with observations from the Horizontal Array Turbulence Study (HATS) field program (Horst et al. 2004). The spectral velocity tensor in the model is described via five parameters: the dissipation rate (ɛ), length scale of energy-containing eddies (L), a turbulence anisotropy parameter (Γ), gradient Richardson number (Ri) representing the atmospheric stability and the rate of destruction of temperature variance (ηθ).

Heat and Mass Transfer in an L Shaped Porous Medium

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Salman Ahmed, N. J.; Azeem; Yunus Khan, T. M.

2017-08-01

This article is an extension to the heat transfer in L-shaped porous medium by including the mass diffusion. The heat and mass transfer in the porous domain is represented by three coupled partial differential equations representing the fluid movement, energy transport and mass transport. The equations are converted into algebraic form of equations by the application of finite element method that can be conveniently solved by matrix method. An iterative approach is adopted to solve the coupled equations by setting suitable convergence criterion. The results are discussed in terms of heat transfer characteristics influenced by physical parameters such as buoyancy ratio, Lewis number, Rayleigh number etc. It is found that these physical parameters have significant effect on heat and mass transfer behavior of L-shaped porous medium.

INFLUENCE OF VISCOUS AND BUOYANCY FORCES ON THE MOBILIZATION OF RESIDUAL TETRACHLOROETHYLENE DURING SURFACTANT FLUSHING

EPA Science Inventory

The potential for nonaqueous phase liquid (NAPL) mobilization is one of the most important considerations in the development and implementation of surfactant-based remediation technologies. Column experiments were performed to investigate the onset and extent of tetrachloroethyle...

Fluid Dynamics and Thermodynamics of Vapor Phase Crystal Growth

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wiedemeier, H.

1985-01-01

The ground-based research effort under this program is concerned with systematic studies of the effects of variations: (1) of the relative importance of buoyancy-driven convection, and (2) of diffusion and viscosity conditions on crystal properties. These experimental studies are supported by thermodynamic characterizations of the systems, based on which fluid dynamic parameters can be determined. The specific materials under investigation include: the GeSe-GeI4, Ge-GeI4, HgTe-HgI2, and Hg sub (1-x)Cd sub (x) Te-HgI2 systems. Mass transport rate studies of the GeSe-GeI system as a function of orientation of the density gradient relative to the gravity vector demonstrated the validity of flux anomalies observed in earlier space experiments. The investigation of the effects of inert gases on mass flux yielded the first experimental evidence for the existence of a boundary layer in closed ampoules. Combined with a thorough thermodynamic analysis, a transport model for diffusive flow including chemical vapor transport, sublimation, and Stefan flow was developed.

Development of a Device to Deploy Fluid Droplets in Microgravity

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Robinson, David W.; Chai, An-Ti

1997-01-01

A free-floating droplet in microgravity is ideal for scientific observation since it is free of confounding factors such as wetting and nonsymmetrical heat transfer introduced by contact with surfaces. However, the technology to reliably deploy in microgravity has not yet been developed. In some recent fluid deployment experiments, droplets are either shaken off the dispenser or the dispenser is quickly retracted from the droplet. These solutions impart random residual motion to deployed droplet, which can be undesirable for certain investigations. In the present study, two new types of droplet injectors were built and tested. Testing of the droplet injectors consisted of neutral buoyancy tank tests, 5-sec drop tower tests at the NASA Lewis Zero Gravity Facility, and DC-9 tests. One type, the concentric injector, worked well in the neutral buoyancy tank but did not do well in low-gravity. However, it appeared that it makes a fine apparatus for constructing bubbles in low-gravity conditions. The other type, the T-injector, showed the most promise for future development. In both neutral buoyancy and DC-9 tests, water droplets were formed and deployed with some control and repeatability, although in low-gravity the residual velocities were higher than desirable. Based on our observations, further refinements are suggested for future development work.

Quasi-Geostrophic Diagnosis of Mixed-Layer Dynamics Embedded in a Mesoscale Turbulent Field

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Chavanne, C. P.; Klein, P.

2016-02-01

A new quasi-geostrophic model has been developed to diagnose the three-dimensional circulation, including the vertical velocity, in the upper ocean from high-resolution observations of sea surface height and buoyancy. The formulation for the adiabatic component departs from the classical surface quasi-geostrophic framework considered before since it takes into account the stratification within the surface mixed-layer that is usually much weaker than that in the ocean interior. To achieve this, the model approximates the ocean with two constant-stratification layers : a finite-thickness surface layer (or the mixed-layer) and an infinitely-deep interior layer. It is shown that the leading-order adiabatic circulation is entirely determined if both the surface streamfunction and buoyancy anomalies are considered. The surface layer further includes a diabatic dynamical contribution. Parameterization of diabatic vertical velocities is based on their restoring impacts of the thermal-wind balance that is perturbed by turbulent vertical mixing of momentum and buoyancy. The model skill in reproducing the three-dimensional circulation in the upper ocean from surface data is checked against the output of a high-resolution primitive-equation numerical simulation. Correlation between simulated and diagnosed vertical velocities are significantly improved in the mixed-layer for the new model compared to the classical surface quasi-geostrophic model, reaching 0.9 near the surface.

7. LESLIE WICKMAN, EVA (EXTRA VEHICULAR ACTIVITIES) SPECIALIST, IN SPACE ...

Library of Congress Historic Buildings Survey, Historic Engineering Record, Historic Landscapes Survey

7. LESLIE WICKMAN, EVA (EXTRA VEHICULAR ACTIVITIES) SPECIALIST, IN SPACE SUIT AFTER TESTING IN NEUTRAL BUOYANCY TANK. AVERAGE COST OF SUIT IS $1,000,000. - Marshall Space Flight Center, Neutral Buoyancy Simulator Facility, Rideout Road, Huntsville, Madison County, AL

Buoyancy-generating agents for stomach-specific drug delivery: an overview with special emphasis on floating behavior.

PubMed

Ishak, Rania A H

2015-01-01

Gastric retentive drug delivery provides a promising technology exhibiting an extended gastric residence and a drug release independent of patient related variables. It is usually useful in improving local gastric treatment as well as overcoming drug-related problems .i.e. drugs having narrow absorption window, short half-life or low intestinal solubility. Buoyancy is considered one of the most promising approaches for gastro-retention of dosage forms. Floating drug delivery systems have a bulk density lower than gastric fluids and thus remain buoyant in the stomach causing an increase in gastric residence time. The buoyancy of these systems is attained by the aid of substances responsible to generate the low density. Various agents with different mechanisms were adopted either gas-generating agents, air entrapping swellable polymers, inherent low density substances, porous excipients, hollow/porous particles inducing preparation techniques or sublimating agents. Therefore, this review gives an exclusive descriptive classification of the different categories of these buoyancy-generating agents while representing the related research works. An overview is also conducted to describe relevant techniques assessing the floating behavior of such dosage forms either in vitro or in vivo. Finally, a collection representing FDA-approved floating pharmaceutical products is adopted with emphasis on the buoyancy-generating agent type used in each product.

Exploring Titan with Autonomous, Buoyancy Driven Gliders

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Morrow, M. T.; Woolsey, C. A.; Hagerman, G. M.

Buoyancy driven underwater gliders are highly efficient winged underwater vehicles which locomote by modifying their internal shape. The concept, which is already well-proven in Earth's oceans, is also an appealing technology for remote terrain exploration and environmental sampling on worlds with dense atmospheres. Because of their high efficiency and their gentle, vertical take-off and landing capability, buoyancy driven gliders might perform long duration, global mapping tasks as well as light-duty, local sampling tasks. Moreover, a sufficiently strong gradient in the planetary boundary layer may enable the vehicles to perform dynamic soaring, achieving even greater locomotive efficiency. Shape Change Actuated, Low Altitude Robotic Soarers (SCALARS) are an appealing alternative to more conventional vehicle technology for exploring planets with dense atmospheres. SCALARS are buoyancy driven atmospheric gliders with a twin-hulled, inboard wing configuration. The inboard wing generates lift, which propels the vehicle forward. Symmetric changes in mass distribution induce gravitational pitch moments that provide longitudinal control. Asymmetric changes in mass distribution induce twist in the inboard wing that provides directional control. The vehicle is actuated solely by internal shape change; there are no external seals and no exposed moving parts, save for the inflatable buoyancy ballonets. Preliminary sizing analysis and dynamic modeling indicate the viability of using SCALARS to map the surface of Titan and to investigate features of interest.

Study of Buoyancy Effects in Diffusion Flames Using Rainbow Schlieren Deflectometry

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Agrawal, Ajay K.; Gollahalli, Subramanyam R.; Griffin, DeVon

1997-01-01

Diffusion flames are extensively encountered in many domestic and industrial processes. Even after many decades of research, a complete understanding of the diffusion flame structure is not available. The structure and properties of the flames are governed by the mixing (laminar or turbulent), chemical kinetics, radiation and soot processes. Another important phenomenon that affects flame structure in normal gravity is buoyancy. The presence of buoyancy has long hindered the rational understanding of many combustion processes. In gas jet diffusion flames, buoyancy affects the structure of the shear layer, the development of fluid instabilities, and formation of the coherent structures in the near nozzle region of the gas jets. The buoyancy driven instabilities generate vorticial structures outside the flame resulting in flame flicker. The vortices also strongly interact with the small-scale structures in the jet shear layer. This affects the transitional and turbulence characteristics of the flame. For a fundamental understanding of diffusion flames it is essential to isolate the effects of buoyancy. This is the primary goal of the experiments conducted in microgravity. Previous investigations, have shown dramatic differences between the jet flames in microgravity and normal gravity. It has been observed that flames in microgravity are taller and more sooty than in normal gravity. The fuels used in these experiments were primarily hydrocarbons. In the absence of buoyancy the soot resides near the flame region, which adversely affects the entrainment of reactants. It is very important to eliminate the interference of soot on flame characteristics in microgravity. The present work, therefore, focuses on the changes in the flame structure due to buoyancy without the added complexities of heterogeneous reactions. Clean burning hydrogen is used as the fuel to avoid soot formation and minimize radiative losses. Because of the low luminosity of hydrogen flames, we use rainbow schlieren deflectometry for visualization. The visualized images are digitized for quantification.The work reported here is divided into three sections; rainbow schlieren deflectometry (RSD), microgravity experiments and sub-atmospheric pressure experiments. The first section demonstrates the application of RSD for quantitative measurements in non-reacting and reacting flow systems. A computational effort to complement the experimental work is also included. In the second section, the experiments conducted at the 2.2s NASA Lewis Drop tower facility are described. The experiments were conducted to study the behavior of laminar, transitional and turbulent hydrogen flames in microgravity. The ability of RSD technique to provide quantitative data is highlighted. The final section deals with the sub-atmospheric pressure tests, which demonstrate that buoyancy in hydrogen diffusion flames can be scaled with pressure at normal gravity.

Buoyancy Effects on Flow Structure and Instability of Low-Density Gas Jets

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pasumarthi, Kasyap Sriramachandra

2004-01-01

A low-density gas jet injected into a high-density ambient gas is known to exhibit self-excited global oscillations accompanied by large vortical structures interacting with the flow field. The primary objective of the proposed research is to study buoyancy effects on the origin and nature of the flow instability and structure in the near-field of low-density gas jets. Quantitative rainbow schlieren deflectometry, Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and Linear stability analysis were the techniques employed to scale the buoyancy effects. The formation and evolution of vortices and scalar structure of the flow field are investigated in buoyant helium jets discharged from a vertical tube into quiescent air. Oscillations at identical frequency were observed throughout the flow field. The evolving flow structure is described by helium mole percentage contours during an oscillation cycle. Instantaneous, mean, and RMS concentration profiles are presented to describe interactions of the vortex with the jet flow. Oscillations in a narrow wake region near the jet exit are shown to spread through the jet core near the downstream location of the vortex formation. The effects of jet Richardson number on characteristics of vortex and flow field are investigated and discussed. The laminar, axisymmetric, unsteady jet flow of helium injected into air was simulated using CFD. Global oscillations were observed in the flow field. The computed oscillation frequency agreed qualitatively with the experimentally measured frequency. Contours of helium concentration, vorticity and velocity provided information about the evolution and propagation of vortices in the oscillating flow field. Buoyancy effects on the instability mode were evaluated by rainbow schlieren flow visualization and concentration measurements in the near-field of self-excited helium jets undergoing gravitational change in the microgravity environment of 2.2s drop tower at NASA John H. Glenn Research Center. The jet Reynolds number was varied from 200 to 1500 and jet Richardson number was varied from 0.72 to 0.002. Power spectra plots generated from Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) analysis of angular deflection data acquired at a temporal resolution of 1000Hz reveal substantial damping of the oscillation amplitude in microgravity at low Richardson numbers (0.002). Quantitative concentration data in the form of spatial and temporal evolutions of the instability data in Earth gravity and microgravity reveal significant variations in the jet flow structure upon removal of buoyancy forces. Radial variation of the frequency spectra and time traces of helium concentration revealed the importance of gravitational effects in the jet shear layer region. Linear temporal and spatio-temporal stability analyses of a low-density round gas jet injected into a high-density ambient gas were performed by assuming hyper-tan mean velocity and density profiles. The flow was assumed to be non parallel. Viscous and diffusive effects were ignored. The mean flow parameters were represented as the sum of the mean value and a small normal-mode fluctuation. A second order differential equation governing the pressure disturbance amplitude was derived from the basic conservation equations. The effects of the inhomogeneous shear layer and the Froude number (signifying the effects of gravity) on the temporal and spatio-temporal results were delineated. A decrease in the density ratio (ratio of the density of the jet to the density of the ambient gas) resulted in an increase in the temporal amplification rate of the disturbances. The temporal growth rate of the disturbances increased as the Froude number was reduced. The spatio-temporal analysis performed to determine the absolute instability characteristics of the jet yield positive absolute temporal growth rates at all Fr and different axial locations. As buoyancy was removed (Fr . 8), the previously existing absolute instability disappeared at all locations establhing buoyancy as the primary instability mechanism in self-excited low-density jets.

Noninvasive embryo assessment technique based on buoyancy and its association with embryo survival after cryopreservation.

PubMed

Wessels, Cara; Penrose, Lindsay; Ahmad, Khaliq; Prien, Samuel

2017-11-01

Embryo cryopreservation offers many benefits by allowing genetic preservation, genetic screening, cost reduction, global embryo transport and single embryo transfer. However, freezing of embryos decreases embryo viability, as intracellular ice crystal formation often damages embryos. Success rates of frozen embryo transfer are expected to be 15-20% less than fresh embryo transfer. We have developed a noninvasive embryo assessment technique (NEAT) which enables us to predict embryo viability based on buoyancy. The purpose of this research was twofold. First was to determine if a NEAT, through a specific gravity device can detect embryo survival of cryopreservation. Second, it was to relate embryo buoyancy to embryo viability for establishing pregnancies in sheep. Blastocysts descent times were measured on one-hundred sixty-nine mice blastocysts before cryopreservation, according to standard protocol and post-thawing blastocysts descent times were measured again. There was a significant difference in blastocyst post-thaw descent times with NEAT in those blastocysts which demonstrated viability from those that did not (P < 0.05). This suggests NEAT is successful in determining blastocysts viability in cryopreserved mice blastocysts. At a commercial ovine facility, NEAT was performed on fourteen frozen and thawed ovine blastocysts. Blastocysts of similar descent times were paired and transferred into recipient ewes as twins. Pregnancy was later confirmed by blood test and multiple gestation outcomes were determined at lambing. Six of seven recipient ewes were pregnant and all pregnant ewes delivered lambs without complication. Four ewes delivered twin lambs and two ewes delivered singletons, which totals ten of the fourteen (71%) blastocysts surviving to term. This pregnancy rate is comparable to expected to pregnancy rates in a commercial setting. The blastocysts which did not establish pregnancy demonstrated less buoyancy versus those blastocysts which established pregnancies which survived to term (P < 0.05). These results suggest NEAT can identify which blastocysts survive cryopreservation, thus significantly reduce the transfer of non-viable embryos. Further studies on a larger scale commercial setting will evaluate the efficacy of NEAT. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

8. LESLIE WICKMAN, EVA (EXTRA VEHICULAR ACTIVITIES) SPECIALIST, GETTING OUT ...

Library of Congress Historic Buildings Survey, Historic Engineering Record, Historic Landscapes Survey

8. LESLIE WICKMAN, EVA (EXTRA VEHICULAR ACTIVITIES) SPECIALIST, GETTING OUT OF SPACE SUIT AFTER TESTING IN NEUTRAL BUOYANCY TANK. AVERAGE COST OF SUIT $1,000,000. - Marshall Space Flight Center, Neutral Buoyancy Simulator Facility, Rideout Road, Huntsville, Madison County, AL

Sensitivity of the Southern Ocean overturning circulation to surface buoyancy forcing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Morrison, A.; Hogg, A.; Ward, M.

2011-12-01

The southern limb of the ocean's meridional overturning circulation plays a key role in the Earth's response to climate change. The rise in atmospheric CO2 during glacial-interglacial transitions has been attributed to outgassing of enhanced upwelling water masses in the Southern Ocean. However a dynamical understanding of the physical mechanisms driving the change in overturning is lacking. Previous modelling studies of the Southern Ocean have focused on the effect of wind stress forcing on the overturning, while largely neglecting the response of the upper overturning cell to changes in surface buoyancy forcing. Using a series of eddy-permitting, idealised simulations of the Southern Ocean, we show that surface buoyancy forcing in the mid-latitudes is likely to play a significant role in setting the strength of the overturning circulation. Air-sea fluxes of heat and precipitation over the Antarctic Circumpolar Current region act to convert dense upwelled water masses into lighter waters at the surface. Additional fluxes of heat or freshwater thereby facilitate the meridional overturning up to a theoretical limit derived from Ekman transport. The sensitivity of the overturning to surface buoyancy forcing is strongly dependent on the relative locations of the wind stress profile, buoyancy forcing and upwelling region. The idealised model results provide support for the hypothesis that changes in upwelling during deglaciations may have been driven by changes in heat and freshwater fluxes, instead of, or in addition to, changes in wind stress. Morrison, A. K., A. M. Hogg, and M. L. Ward (2011), Sensitivity of the Southern Ocean overturning circulation to surface buoyancy forcing, Geophys. Res. Lett., 38, L14602, doi:10.1029/2011GL048031.

Wind influence on a coastal buoyant outflow

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Whitney, Michael M.; Garvine, Richard W.

2005-03-01

This paper investigates the interplay between river discharge and winds in forcing coastal buoyant outflows. During light winds a plume influenced by the Earth's rotation will flow down shelf (in the direction of Kelvin wave propagation) as a slender buoyancy-driven coastal current. Downwelling favorable winds augment this down-shelf flow, narrow the plume, and mix the water column. Upwelling favorable winds drive currents that counter the buoyancy-driven flow, spread plume waters offshore, and rapidly mix buoyant waters. Two criteria are developed to assess the wind influence on a buoyant outflow. The wind strength index (Ws) determines whether a plume's along-shelf flow is in a wind-driven or buoyancy-driven state. Ws is the ratio of the wind-driven and buoyancy-driven along-shelf velocities. Wind influence on across-shelf plume structure is rated with a timescale (ttilt) for the isopycnal tilting caused by wind-driven Ekman circulation. These criteria are used to characterize wind influence on the Delaware Coastal Current and can be applied to other coastal buoyant outflows. The Delaware buoyant outflow is simulated for springtime high-river discharge conditions. Simulation results and Ws values reveal that the coastal current is buoyancy-driven most of the time (∣Ws∣ < 1 on average). Wind events, however, overwhelm the buoyancy-driven flow (∣Ws∣ > 1) several times during the high-discharge period. Strong upwelling events reverse the buoyant outflow; they constitute an important mechanism for transporting fresh water up shelf. Across-shelf plume structure is more sensitive to wind influence than the along-shelf flow. Values of ttilt indicate that moderate or strong winds persisting throughout a day can modify plume width significantly. Plume widening during upwelling events is accompanied by mixing that can erase the buoyant outflow.

Mechanical challenges to freshwater residency in sharks and rays.

PubMed

Gleiss, Adrian C; Potvin, Jean; Keleher, James J; Whitty, Jeff M; Morgan, David L; Goldbogen, Jeremy A

2015-04-01

Major transitions between marine and freshwater habitats are relatively infrequent, primarily as a result of major physiological and ecological challenges. Few species of cartilaginous fish have evolved to occupy freshwater habitats. Current thought suggests that the metabolic physiology of sharks has remained a barrier to the diversification of this taxon in freshwater ecosystems. Here, we demonstrate that the physical properties of water provide an additional constraint for this species-rich group to occupy freshwater systems. Using hydromechanical modeling, we show that occurrence in fresh water results in a two- to three-fold increase in negative buoyancy for sharks and rays. This carries the energetic cost of lift production and results in increased buoyancy-dependent mechanical power requirements for swimming and increased optimal swim speeds. The primary source of buoyancy, the lipid-rich liver, offers only limited compensation for increased negative buoyancy as a result of decreasing water density; maintaining the same submerged weight would involve increasing the liver volume by very large amounts: 3- to 4-fold in scenarios where liver density is also reduced to currently observed minimal levels and 8-fold without any changes in liver density. The first data on body density from two species of elasmobranch occurring in freshwater (the bull shark Carcharhinus leucas, Müller and Henle 1839, and the largetooth sawfish Pristis pristis, Linnaeus 1758) support this hypothesis, showing similar liver sizes as marine forms but lower liver densities, but the greatest negative buoyancies of any elasmobranch studied to date. Our data suggest that the mechanical challenges associated with buoyancy control may have hampered the invasion of freshwater habitats in elasmobranchs, highlighting an additional key factor that may govern the predisposition of marine organisms to successfully establish in freshwater habitats. © 2015. Published by The Company of Biologists Ltd.

Tail thrust of bluefish Pomatomus saltatrix at different buoyancies, speeds, and swimming angles.

PubMed

Ogilvy, C S; DuBois, A B

1982-06-01

1. The tail thrust of bluefish Pomatomus saltatrix was measured using a body accelerometer at different water speeds, buoyancies, and angles of water flow to determine the contribution of tail thrust in overcoming parasitic drag, induced drag, and weight directed along the track. The lengths and weights of the fish averaged 0.52 m and 1.50 kg respectively. 2. The tail thrust overcoming parasitic drag in Newtons, as measured during neutral buoyancy, was: 0.51 x speed + 0.15, with a standard error of estimate of 0.09 N. 3. When buoyancy was altered by the introduction or removal of air from a balloon implanted in the swim bladder, the tail thrust was altered by an amount of the same order as the value calculated for the induced drag of the pectoral fins. 4. The component of weight directed backward along the track was the weight in water multiplied by the sine of the angle of the swimming tunnel relative to horizontal. When this force was added to the calculated induced drag and tail thrust measured at neutral buoyancy, the rearward force equal to the tail thrust, at 45 ml negative buoyancy, 0.5 m s-1, and 15 degrees head up, was 0.12 N due to weight + 0.05 N due to induced drag + 0.40 N due to parasitic drag = 0.57 N total rearward force. 5. The conditions required for gliding were not achieved in our bluefish because the drag exceeded the component of the weight in water directed forward along the track at speeds above the stalling speed of the pectoral fins.

Buoyant subduction on Venus: Implications for subduction around coronae

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Burt, J. D.; Head, J. W.

1993-03-01

Potentially low lithospheric densities, caused by high Venus surface and perhaps mantle temperatures, could inhibit the development of negative buoyancy-driven subduction and a global system of plate tectonics/crustal recycling on that planet. No evidence for a global plate tectonic system was found so far, however, specific features strongly resembling terrestrial subduction zones in planform and topographic cross-section were described, including trenches around large coronae and chasmata in eastern Aphrodite Terra. The cause for the absence, or an altered expression, of plate tectonics on Venus remains to be found. Slab buoyancy may play a role in this difference, with higher lithospheric temperatures and a tendency toward positive buoyancy acting to oppose the descent of slabs and favoring under thrusting instead. The effect of slab buoyancy on subduction was explored and the conditions which would lead to under thrusting versus those allowing the formation of trenches and self-perpetuating subduction were defined. Applying a finite element code to assess the effects of buoyant forces on slabs subducting into a viscous mantle, it was found that mantle flow induced by horizontal motion of the convergent lithosphere greatly influences subduction angle, while buoyancy forces produce a lesser effect. Induced mantle flow tends to decrease subduction angle to near an under thrusting position when the subducting lithosphere converges on a stationary overriding lithosphere. When the overriding lithosphere is in motion, as in the case of an expanding corona, subduction angles are expected to increase. An initial stage involved estimating the changes in slab buoyancy due to slab healing and pressurization over the course of subduction. Modeling a slab, descending at a fixed angle and heated by conduction, radioactivity, and the heat released in phase changes, slab material density changes due to changing temperature, phase, and pressure were derived.

Material transport in a wind and buoyancy forced mixed layer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mensa, J. A.; Özgökmen, T.; Poje, A. C.; Imberger, J.

2016-02-01

Flows in the upper ocean mixed layer are responsible for the transport and dispersion of biogeochemical tracers, phytoplankton and buoyant pollutants, such as hydrocarbons from an oil spill. Material dispersion in mixed layer flows subject to diurnal buoyancy forcing and weak winds (|u10|=5ms-1) are investigated using a non-hydrostatic model. Both purely buoyancy-forced and combined wind- and buoyancy-forced flows are sampled using passive tracers, as well as 2D and 3D particles to explore characteristics of horizontal and vertical dispersion. It is found that the surface tracer patterns are determined by the convergence zones created by convection cells within a time scale of just a few hours. For pure convection, the results displayed the classic signature of Rayleigh-Benard cells. When combined with a wind stress, the convective cells become anisotropic in that the along-wind length scale gets much larger than the cross-wind scale. Horizontal relative dispersion computed by sampling the flow fields using both 2D and 3D passive particles is found to be consistent with the Richardson regime. Relative dispersion is an order of magnitude higher and 2D surface releases transition to Richardson regime faster in the wind-forced case. We also show that the buoyancy-forced case results in significantly lower amplitudes of scale-dependent horizontal relative diffusivity, kD(l), than those reported by Okubo (1970), while the wind- and buoyancy forced case shows a good agreement with Okubo's diffusivity amplitude, and scaling consistent with Richardson's 4/3rd law, kD(l) l4/3. The modelling results provide a framework for measuring material dispersion by mixed layer flow in future observational programs.

Kinematics and dynamics of the East Pacific Rise linked to a stable, deep-mantle upwelling

PubMed Central

Rowley, David B.; Forte, Alessandro M.; Rowan, Christopher J.; Glišović, Petar; Moucha, Robert; Grand, Stephen P.; Simmons, Nathan A.

2016-01-01

Earth’s tectonic plates are generally considered to be driven largely by negative buoyancy associated with subduction of oceanic lithosphere. In this context, mid-ocean ridges (MORs) are passive plate boundaries whose divergence accommodates flow driven by subduction of oceanic slabs at trenches. We show that over the past 80 million years (My), the East Pacific Rise (EPR), Earth’s dominant MOR, has been characterized by limited ridge-perpendicular migration and persistent, asymmetric ridge accretion that are anomalous relative to other MORs. We reconstruct the subduction-related buoyancy fluxes of plates on either side of the EPR. The general expectation is that greater slab pull should correlate with faster plate motion and faster spreading at the EPR. Moreover, asymmetry in slab pull on either side of the EPR should correlate with either ridge migration or enhanced plate velocity in the direction of greater slab pull. Based on our analysis, none of the expected correlations are evident. This implies that other forces significantly contribute to EPR behavior. We explain these observations using mantle flow calculations based on globally integrated buoyancy distributions that require core-mantle boundary heat flux of up to 20 TW. The time-dependent mantle flow predictions yield a long-lived deep-seated upwelling that has its highest radial velocity under the EPR and is inferred to control its observed kinematics. The mantle-wide upwelling beneath the EPR drives horizontal components of asthenospheric flows beneath the plates that are similarly asymmetric but faster than the overlying surface plates, thereby contributing to plate motions through viscous tractions in the Pacific region. PMID:28028535

Kinematics and dynamics of the East Pacific Rise linked to a stable, deep-mantle upwelling.

PubMed

Rowley, David B; Forte, Alessandro M; Rowan, Christopher J; Glišović, Petar; Moucha, Robert; Grand, Stephen P; Simmons, Nathan A

2016-12-01

Earth's tectonic plates are generally considered to be driven largely by negative buoyancy associated with subduction of oceanic lithosphere. In this context, mid-ocean ridges (MORs) are passive plate boundaries whose divergence accommodates flow driven by subduction of oceanic slabs at trenches. We show that over the past 80 million years (My), the East Pacific Rise (EPR), Earth's dominant MOR, has been characterized by limited ridge-perpendicular migration and persistent, asymmetric ridge accretion that are anomalous relative to other MORs. We reconstruct the subduction-related buoyancy fluxes of plates on either side of the EPR. The general expectation is that greater slab pull should correlate with faster plate motion and faster spreading at the EPR. Moreover, asymmetry in slab pull on either side of the EPR should correlate with either ridge migration or enhanced plate velocity in the direction of greater slab pull. Based on our analysis, none of the expected correlations are evident. This implies that other forces significantly contribute to EPR behavior. We explain these observations using mantle flow calculations based on globally integrated buoyancy distributions that require core-mantle boundary heat flux of up to 20 TW. The time-dependent mantle flow predictions yield a long-lived deep-seated upwelling that has its highest radial velocity under the EPR and is inferred to control its observed kinematics. The mantle-wide upwelling beneath the EPR drives horizontal components of asthenospheric flows beneath the plates that are similarly asymmetric but faster than the overlying surface plates, thereby contributing to plate motions through viscous tractions in the Pacific region.

The use of spirometry to evaluate pulmonary function in olive ridley sea turtles (Lepidochelys olivacea) with positive buoyancy disorders.

PubMed

Schmitt, Todd L; Munns, Suzanne; Adams, Lance; Hicks, James

2013-09-01

This study utilized computed spirometry to compare the pulmonary function of two stranded olive ridley sea turtles (Lepidochelys olivacea) presenting with a positive buoyancy disorder with two healthy captive olive ridley sea turtles held in a large public aquarium. Pulmonary function test (PFT) measurements demonstrated that the metabolic cost of breathing was much greater for animals admitted with positive buoyancy than for the normal sea turtles. Positively buoyant turtles had higher tidal volumes and significantly lower breathing-frequency patterns with significantly higher expiration rates, typical of gasp-type breathing. The resulting higher energetic cost of breathing in the diseased turtles may have a significant impact on their long-term survival. The findings represent a method for clinical respiratory function analysis for an individual animal to assist with diagnosis, therapy, and prognosis. This is the first study, to our knowledge, to evaluate objectively sea turtles presenting with positive buoyancy and respiratory disease using pulmonary function tests.

Segregation of large granules from close-packed cluster of small granules due to buoyancy.

PubMed

Yang, Xian-qing; Zhou, Kun; Qiu, Kang; Zhao, Yue-min

2006-03-01

Segregation of large granules in a vibrofluidized granular bed with inhomogeneous granular number density distribution is studied by an event-driven algorithm. Simulation results show that the mean vertical position of large granules decreases with the increase of the density ration of the large granules to the small ones. This conclusion is consistent with the explanation that the net pressure due to the small surrounding particle impacts balances the large granular weight, and indict that the upward movement of the large granules is driven by the buoyancy. The values of temperature, density, and pressure of the systems are also computed by changing the conditions such as heating temperature on the bottom and restitution coefficient of particles. These results indicate that the segregation of large granules also happen in the systems with density inversion or even close-packed cluster of particles floating on a low-density fluid, due to the buoyancy. An equation of state is proposed to explain the buoyancy.

Characteristics Of Turbulent Nonpremixed Jet-Flames And Jet-Flames In Crossflow In Normal- And Low-Gravity

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Clemens, N. T.; Boxx, I. G.; Idicheria, C. A.

2003-01-01

It is well known that buoyancy has a major influence on the flow structure of turbulent nonpremixed jet flames. For example, previous studies have shown that transitional and turbulent jet flames exhibit flame lengths that are as much as a factor of two longer in microgravity than in normal gravity. The objective of this study is to extend these previous studies by investigating both mean and fluctuating characteristics of turbulent nonpremixed jet flames under three different gravity levels (1 g, 20 mg and 100 micrograms). This work is described in more detail elsewhere. In addition, we have recently initiated a new study into the effects of buoyancy on turbulent nonpremixed jet flames in cross-flow (JFICF). Buoyancy has been observed to play a key role in determining the centerline trajectories of such flames.6 The objective of this study is to use the low gravity environment to study the effects of buoyancy on the turbulent characteristics of JFICF.

Positive segregation as a function of buoyancy force during steel ingot solidification.

PubMed

Radovic, Zarko; Jaukovic, Nada; Lalovic, Milisav; Tadic, Nebojsa

2008-12-01

We analyze theoretically and experimentally solute redistribution in the dendritic solidification process and positive segregation during solidification of steel ingots. Positive segregation is mainly caused by liquid flow in the mushy zone. Changes in the liquid steel velocity are caused by the temperature gradient and by the increase in the solid fraction during solidification. The effects of buoyancy and of the change in the solid fraction on segregation intensity are analyzed. The relationships between the density change, liquid fraction and the steel composition are considered. Such elements as W, Ni, Mo and Cr decrease the effect of the density variations, i.e. they show smaller tendency to segregate. Based on the modeling and experimental results, coefficients are provided controlling the effects of chemical composition, secondary dendrite arm spacing and the solid fraction.

Weakly Nonlinear Model with Exact Coefficients for the Fluttering and Spiraling Motion of Buoyancy-Driven Bodies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tchoufag, Joël; Fabre, David; Magnaudet, Jacques

2015-09-01

Gravity- or buoyancy-driven bodies moving in a slightly viscous fluid frequently follow fluttering or helical paths. Current models of such systems are largely empirical and fail to predict several of the key features of their evolution, especially close to the onset of path instability. Here, using a weakly nonlinear expansion of the full set of governing equations, we present a new generic reduced-order model based on a pair of amplitude equations with exact coefficients that drive the evolution of the first pair of unstable modes. We show that the predictions of this model for the style (e.g., fluttering or spiraling) and characteristics (e.g., frequency and maximum inclination angle) of path oscillations compare well with various recent data for both solid disks and air bubbles.

A weakly nonlinear model with exact coefficients for the fluttering and spiraling motions of buoyancy-driven bodies

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Magnaudet, Jacques; Tchoufag, Joel; Fabre, David

2015-11-01

Gravity/buoyancy-driven bodies moving in a slightly viscous fluid frequently follow fluttering or helical paths. Current models of such systems are largely empirical and fail to predict several of the key features of their evolution, especially close to the onset of path instability. Using a weakly nonlinear expansion of the full set of governing equations, we derive a new generic reduced-order model of this class of phenomena based on a pair of amplitude equations with exact coefficients that drive the evolution of the first pair of unstable modes. We show that the predictions of this model for the style (eg. fluttering or spiraling) and characteristics (eg. frequency and maximum inclination angle) of path oscillations compare well with various recent data for both solid disks and air bubbles.

Surface shear stress dependence of gas transfer velocity parameterizations using DNS

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Fredriksson, S. T.; Arneborg, L.; Nilsson, H.; Handler, R. A.

2016-10-01

Air-water gas-exchange is studied in direct numerical simulations (DNS) of free-surface flows driven by natural convection and weak winds. The wind is modeled as a constant surface-shear-stress and the gas-transfer is modeled via a passive scalar. The simulations are characterized via a Richardson number Ri=Bν/u*4 where B, ν, and u* are the buoyancy flux, kinematic viscosity, and friction velocity respectively. The simulations comprise 0Ric or kg=AShearu*Sc-n, Ri

Similarity scaling of turbulence in small temperate lake: implication for gas flux: implication for gas flux

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tedford, E. W.; MacIntyre, S.; Miller, S. D.; Czikowsky, M. J.

2013-12-01

The actively mixing layer, or surface layer, is the region of the upper mixed layer of lakes, oceans and the atmosphere directly influenced by wind, heating and cooling. Turbulence within the surface mixing layer has a direct impact on important ecological processes. The Monin-Obukhov length scale (LMO) is a critical length scale used in predicting and understanding turbulence in the actively mixed layer. On the water side of the air-water interface, LMO is defined as: LMO=-u*^3/(0.4 JB0) where u*, the shear velocity, is defined as (τ/rho)^0.5 where τ is the shear stress and rho is the density of water and JBO is the buoyancy flux at the surface. Above the depth equal to the absolute value of the Monin-Obukhov length scale (zMO), wind shear is assumed to dominate the production of turbulent kinetic energy (TKE). Below zMO, the turbulence is assumed to be suppressed when JB0 is stabilizing (warming surface waters) and enhanced when the buoyancy flux is destabilizing (cooling surface waters). Our observed dissipations were well represented using the canonical similarity scaling equations. The Monin-Obukhov length scale was generally effective in separating the surface-mixing layer into two regions: an upper region, dominated by wind shear; and a lower region, dominated by buoyancy flux. During both heating and cooling and above a depth equal to |LMO|, turbulence was dominated by wind shear and dissipation followed law of the wall scaling although was slightly augmented by buoyancy flux during both heating and cooling. Below a depth equal to |LMO| during cooling, dissipation was nearly uniform with depth. Although distinguishing between an upper region of the actively mixing layer dominated by wind stress and a lower portion dominated by buoyancy flux is typically accurate the most accurate estimates of dissipation include the effects of both wind stress and buoyancy flux throughout the actively mixed layer. We demonstrate and discuss the impact of neglecting the non-dominant forcing (buoyancy flux above zMO and wind stress below zMO) above and below zMO.

The Principles of Buoyancy in Marine Fish Eggs and Their Vertical Distributions across the World Oceans.

PubMed

Sundby, Svein; Kristiansen, Trond

2015-01-01

Buoyancy acting on plankton, i.e. the difference in specific gravity between plankton and the ambient water, is a function of salinity and temperature. From specific gravity measurements of marine fish eggs salinity appears to be the only determinant of the buoyancy indicating that the thermal expansions of the fish egg and the ambient seawater are equal. We analyze the mechanisms behind thermal expansion in fish eggs in order to determine to what extent it can be justified to neglect the effects of temperature on buoyancy. Our results confirm the earlier assumptions that salinity is the basic determinant on buoyancy in marine fish eggs that, in turn, influence the vertical distributions and, consequently, the dispersal of fish eggs from the spawning areas. Fish populations have adapted accordingly by producing egg specific gravities that tune the egg buoyancy to create specific vertical distributions for each local population. A wide variety of buoyancy adaptations are found among fish populations. The ambient physical conditions at the spawning sites form a basic constraint for adaptation. In coastal regions where salinity increases with depth, and where the major fraction of the fish stocks spawns, pelagic and mesopelagic egg distributions dominate. However, in the larger part of worlds' oceans salinity decreases with depth resulting in different egg distributions. Here, the principles of vertical distributions of fish eggs in the world oceans are presented in an overarching framework presenting the basic differences between regions, mainly coastal, where salinity increases with depth and the major part of the world oceans where salinity decreases with depth. We show that under these latter conditions, steady-state vertical distribution of mesopelagic fish eggs cannot exist as it does in most coastal regions. In fact, a critical spawning depth must exist where spawning below this depth threshold results in eggs sinking out of the water column and become lost for recruitment to the population. An example of adaptation to such conditions is Cape hake spawning above the critical layer in the Northern Benguela upwelling ecosystem. The eggs rise slowly in the onshore subsurface current below the Ekman layer, hence being advected inshore where the hatched larvae concentrate with optimal feeding conditions.

Homogeneous buoyancy-generated turbulence

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Batchelor, G. K.; Canuto, V. M.; Chasnov, J. R.

1992-01-01

Using a theoretical analysis of fundamental equations and a numerical simulation of the flow field, the statistically homogeneous motion that is generated by buoyancy forces after the creation of homogeneous random fluctuations in the density of infinite fluid at an initial instant is examined. It is shown that analytical results together with numerical results provide a comprehensive description of the 'birth, life, and death' of buoyancy-generated turbulence. Results of numerical simulations yielded the mean-square density mean-square velocity fluctuations and the associated spectra as functions of time for various initial conditions, and the time required for the mean-square density fluctuation to fall to a specified small value was estimated.

Buoyancy effects on smoldering combustion

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Dosanjh, S.; Peterson, J.; Fernandez-Pello, A. C.; Pagni, P. J.

1985-01-01

The effect of buoyancy on the rate of spread of a concurrent smolder reaction through a porous combustible material is investigated theoretically and experimentally. In the experiments, buoyant forces are controlled by varying the density difference, and the smolder rate spread through porous alpha cellulose (0.83 void fraction) is measured as a function of the ambient air pressure. The smolder velocity is found to increase with the ambient pressure; extinction occurs when the buoyancy forces cannot overcome the drag forces, indicating that diffusion by itself cannot support the spread of a smolder reaction. Theoretical predictions are found to be in good qualitative agreement with the experimental results.

Dynamical consequences of compositional and thermal density stratification beneath spreading centers

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sotin, C.; Parmentier, E. M.

1989-01-01

Dynamical consequences of compositional buoyancy and the combined effects of compositional and thermal buoyancy on mantle flow and crustal production are explored. The results show that for a low enough mantle viscosity, buoyant upwelling can significantly enhance the crustal thickness relative to that which would be produced by plate spreading alone, while for a mantle viscosity of 10 to the 22nd Pa s, upwelling due to plate spreading is dominant and crustal thickness is predicted to be a function of spreading rate. The results indicate that thermal and compositional density variations result in opposing buoyancy forces that can cause time-dependent upwelling.

Mass measurement of 1 kg silicon spheres to establish a density standard

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mizushima, S.; Ueki, M.; Fujii, K.

2004-04-01

Air buoyancy causes a significant systematic effect in precision mass determination of 1 kg silicon spheres. In order to correct this effect accurately, mass measurement of the silicon sphere was conducted using buoyancy artefacts; additionally, in order to stabilize atmospheric conditions, we used a vacuum chamber in which a mass comparator had been installed. The silicon sphere was also weighed in vacuum to verify the air buoyancy correction. Mass differences measured in air and in vacuum showed good agreement with each other in spite of the desorption effect from weight surfaces. Furthermore, the result of weighing under vacuum conditions demonstrated better repeatability than that obtained in air.

Enhancing Science Kits with the Driving Question Board

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Nordine, Jeff; Torres, Ruben

2013-01-01

This article describes the driving question board (DQB), a visual organizer that supports inquiry-based instruction through the use of guiding questions. The DQB is a teaching aid designed to increase student engagement alongside science kits. Information is provided on its application to a lesson on buoyancy, highlighting how it improved…

Dr. von Braun Tries Out the Neutral Buoyancy Simulator (NBS)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1967-01-01

Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) Director, Dr. von Braun, submerges after spending some time under water in the MSFC Neutral Buoyancy Simulator (NBS). Weighted to a neutrally buoyant condition, Dr. von Braun was able to perform tasks underwater which simulated weightless conditions found in space.

46 CFR 160.010-5 - Buoyant apparatus with plastic foam buoyancy.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2010 CFR

2010-10-01

... 46 Shipping 6 2010-10-01 2010-10-01 false Buoyant apparatus with plastic foam buoyancy. 160.010-5 Section 160.010-5 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) EQUIPMENT, CONSTRUCTION, AND MATERIALS: SPECIFICATIONS AND APPROVAL LIFESAVING EQUIPMENT Buoyant Apparatus for Merchant...

46 CFR 160.010-5 - Buoyant apparatus with plastic foam buoyancy.

Code of Federal Regulations, 2011 CFR

2011-10-01

... 46 Shipping 6 2011-10-01 2011-10-01 false Buoyant apparatus with plastic foam buoyancy. 160.010-5 Section 160.010-5 Shipping COAST GUARD, DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (CONTINUED) EQUIPMENT, CONSTRUCTION, AND MATERIALS: SPECIFICATIONS AND APPROVAL LIFESAVING EQUIPMENT Buoyant Apparatus for Merchant...

A numerical study of the Magellan Plume

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Palma, Elbio D.; Matano, Ricardo P.

2012-05-01

In this modeling study we investigate the dynamical mechanisms controlling the spreading of the Magellan Plume, which is a low-salinity tongue that extends along the Patagonian Shelf. Our results indicate that the overall characteristics of the plume (width, depth, spreading rate, etc.) are primarily influenced by tidal forcing, which manifests through tidal mixing and tidal residual currents. Tidal forcing produces a homogenization of the plume's waters and an offshore displacement of its salinity front. The interaction between tidal and wind-forcing reinforces the downstream and upstream buoyancy transports of the plume. The influence of the Malvinas Current on the Magellan Plume is more dominant north of 50°S, where it increases the along-shelf velocities and generates intrusions of saltier waters from the outer shelf, thus causing a reduction of the downstream buoyancy transport. Our experiments also indicate that the northern limit of the Magellan Plume is set by a high salinity discharge from the San Matias Gulf. Sensitivity experiments show that increments of the wind stress cause a decrease of the downstream buoyancy transport and an increase of the upstream buoyancy transport. Variations of the magnitude of the discharge produce substantial modifications in the downstream penetration of the plume and buoyancy transport. The Magellan discharge generates a northeastward current in the middle shelf, a recirculation gyre south of the inlet and a region of weak currents father north.

Experimental aspects of buoyancy correction in measuring reliable high-pressure excess adsorption isotherms using the gravimetric method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nguyen, Huong Giang T.; Horn, Jarod C.; Thommes, Matthias; van Zee, Roger D.; Espinal, Laura

2017-12-01

Addressing reproducibility issues in adsorption measurements is critical to accelerating the path to discovery of new industrial adsorbents and to understanding adsorption processes. A National Institute of Standards and Technology Reference Material, RM 8852 (ammonium ZSM-5 zeolite), and two gravimetric instruments with asymmetric two-beam balances were used to measure high-pressure adsorption isotherms. This work demonstrates how common approaches to buoyancy correction, a key factor in obtaining the mass change due to surface excess gas uptake from the apparent mass change, can impact the adsorption isotherm data. Three different approaches to buoyancy correction were investigated and applied to the subcritical CO2 and supercritical N2 adsorption isotherms at 293 K. It was observed that measuring a collective volume for all balance components for the buoyancy correction (helium method) introduces an inherent bias in temperature partition when there is a temperature gradient (i.e. analysis temperature is not equal to instrument air bath temperature). We demonstrate that a blank subtraction is effective in mitigating the biases associated with temperature partitioning, instrument calibration, and the determined volumes of the balance components. In general, the manual and subtraction methods allow for better treatment of the temperature gradient during buoyancy correction. From the study, best practices specific to asymmetric two-beam balances and more general recommendations for measuring isotherms far from critical temperatures using gravimetric instruments are offered.

Experimental aspects of buoyancy correction in measuring reliable highpressure excess adsorption isotherms using the gravimetric method.

PubMed

Nguyen, Huong Giang T; Horn, Jarod C; Thommes, Matthias; van Zee, Roger D; Espinal, Laura

2017-12-01

Addressing reproducibility issues in adsorption measurements is critical to accelerating the path to discovery of new industrial adsorbents and to understanding adsorption processes. A National Institute of Standards and Technology Reference Material, RM 8852 (ammonium ZSM-5 zeolite), and two gravimetric instruments with asymmetric two-beam balances were used to measure high-pressure adsorption isotherms. This work demonstrates how common approaches to buoyancy correction, a key factor in obtaining the mass change due to surface excess gas uptake from the apparent mass change, can impact the adsorption isotherm data. Three different approaches to buoyancy correction were investigated and applied to the subcritical CO 2 and supercritical N 2 adsorption isotherms at 293 K. It was observed that measuring a collective volume for all balance components for the buoyancy correction (helium method) introduces an inherent bias in temperature partition when there is a temperature gradient (i.e. analysis temperature is not equal to instrument air bath temperature). We demonstrate that a blank subtraction is effective in mitigating the biases associated with temperature partitioning, instrument calibration, and the determined volumes of the balance components. In general, the manual and subtraction methods allow for better treatment of the temperature gradient during buoyancy correction. From the study, best practices specific to asymmetric two-beam balances and more general recommendations for measuring isotherms far from critical temperatures using gravimetric instruments are offered.

Processes governing transient responses of the deep ocean buoyancy budget to a doubling of CO2

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Palter, J. B.; Griffies, S. M.; Hunter Samuels, B. L.; Galbraith, E. D.; Gnanadesikan, A.

2012-12-01

Recent observational analyses suggest there is a temporal trend and high-frequency variability in deep ocean buoyancy in the last twenty years, a phenomenon reproduced even in low-mixing models. Here we use an earth system model (GFDL's ESM2M) to evaluate physical processes that influence buoyancy (and thus steric sea level) budget of the deep ocean in quasi-steady state and under a doubling of CO2. A new suite of model diagnostics allows us to quantitatively assess every process that influences the buoyancy budget and its temporal evolution, revealing surprising dynamics governing both the equilibrium budget and its transient response to climate change. The results suggest that the temporal evolution of the deep ocean contribution to sea level rise is due to a diversity of processes at high latitudes, whose net effect is then advected in the Eulerian mean flow to mid and low latitudes. In the Southern Ocean, a slowdown in convection and spin up of the residual mean advection are approximately equal players in the deep steric sea level rise. In the North Atlantic, the region of greatest deep steric sea level variability in our simulations, a decrease in mixing of cold, dense waters from the marginal seas and a reduction in open ocean convection causes an accumulation of buoyancy in the deep subpolar gyre, which is then advected equatorward.

Turbulence closure for mixing length theories

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Jermyn, Adam S.; Lesaffre, Pierre; Tout, Christopher A.; Chitre, Shashikumar M.

2018-05-01

We present an approach to turbulence closure based on mixing length theory with three-dimensional fluctuations against a two-dimensional background. This model is intended to be rapidly computable for implementation in stellar evolution software and to capture a wide range of relevant phenomena with just a single free parameter, namely the mixing length. We incorporate magnetic, rotational, baroclinic, and buoyancy effects exactly within the formalism of linear growth theories with non-linear decay. We treat differential rotation effects perturbatively in the corotating frame using a novel controlled approximation, which matches the time evolution of the reference frame to arbitrary order. We then implement this model in an efficient open source code and discuss the resulting turbulent stresses and transport coefficients. We demonstrate that this model exhibits convective, baroclinic, and shear instabilities as well as the magnetorotational instability. It also exhibits non-linear saturation behaviour, and we use this to extract the asymptotic scaling of various transport coefficients in physically interesting limits.

U.S. Geological Survey assessment concepts for conventional petroleum accumulations: Chapter 24 in Petroleum systems and geologic assessment of oil and gas in the San Joaquin Basin Province, California

USGS Publications Warehouse

Schmoker, James W.; Klett, T.R.

2007-01-01

Conventional petroleum accumulations are discrete fields or pools localized in structural or stratigraphic traps by the buoyancy of oil or gas in water; they float, bubble-like, in water. This report describes the fundamental concepts supporting the U.S. Geological Survey “Seventh Approximation” model for resource assessments of conventional accumulations. The Seventh Approximation provides a strategy for estimating volumes of undiscovered petroleum (oil, gas, and coproducts) having the potential to be added to reserves in a 30-year forecast span. The assessment of an area requires (1) choice of a minimum accumulation size, (2) assignment of geologic and access risk, and (3) estimation of the number and sizes of undiscovered accumulations in the assessment area. The combination of these variables yields probability distributions for potential additions to reserves. Assessment results are controlled by geology-based input parameters supplied by knowledgeable geologists, as opposed to projections of historical trends.

Phenomenological Nusselt-Rayleigh Scaling of Turbulent Thermal Convection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Liu, Chien-Chia

2017-12-01

Natural convection between the hot floor and the cool ceiling, so called Rayleigh-Bénard convection, is pervasive and of both fundamental and industrial interests. One key issue is how heat transfer varies with increasing thermal potential, or equivalently how the Nusselt number (Nu) scales with the Rayleigh number (Ra). The overview of experimental findings remains to show the need of extra explanation complemental to the current theories. Here we present a model based on the phenomenological theory of turbulence, where the power-law spectral exponent of the energy spectrum is the only input parameter required. The goal aims to elucidate the unexplained aspect in the Nu-Ra scaling. We find that Kolmogorov turbulence in the current model leads to Nu ˜ Ra0.3, in good agreement with the modern experimental results. We hope that this model could stimulate the discussion as to the effects of the spectral phenomena on the Nu-Ra scaling, and thus augment our understanding of buoyancy-driven thermal convection.

Discrete element weld model, phase 2

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Prakash, C.; Samonds, M.; Singhal, A. K.

1987-01-01

A numerical method was developed for analyzing the tungsten inert gas (TIG) welding process. The phenomena being modeled include melting under the arc and the flow in the melt under the action of buoyancy, surface tension, and electromagnetic forces. The latter entails the calculation of the electric potential and the computation of electric current and magnetic field therefrom. Melting may occur at a single temperature or over a temperature range, and the electrical and thermal conductivities can be a function of temperature. Results of sample calculations are presented and discussed at length. A major research contribution has been the development of numerical methodology for the calculation of phase change problems in a fixed grid framework. The model has been implemented on CHAM's general purpose computer code PHOENICS. The inputs to the computer model include: geometric parameters, material properties, and weld process parameters.

Academic Buoyancy: Towards an Understanding of Students' Everyday Academic Resilience

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Martin, Andrew J.; Marsh, Herbert W.

2008-01-01

Academic buoyancy is developed as a construct reflecting everyday academic resilience within a positive psychology context and is defined as students' ability to successfully deal with academic setbacks and challenges that are typical of the ordinary course of school life (e.g., poor grades, competing deadlines, exam pressure, difficult…

Correlates of Inquiry Learning in Science: Constructing Concepts of Density and Buoyancy.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Mastropieri, Margo A.; Scruggs, Thomas E.; Boon, Richard; Carter, Karen Butcher

2001-01-01

A study involving 75 elementary students, 51 with high-incidence disabilities, investigated variables associated with learning in an inquiry-oriented approach to the study of density and buoyancy. Preconceptions, scientific predictions, and academic achievement measures were not predictive of task performance. However, grade level and IQ were…

Fun with Buoyancy.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Cuicchi, Paul M.; Winter, Joshua B.; Hamil, Burnette

2003-01-01

Presents an activity to teach buoyancy. The lab determines what mass of sand can be added to the open end of hollow plastic containers of various shapes so that objects just float at the surface, without sinking, with their entire volume submerged. Discusses Archimedes' principle and aligns with current national science education standards.…

Jernigan and Wolf in Neutral Buoyancy Simulator (NBS)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1995-01-01

Astronauts Tamara Jernigan (#1) and David Wolf (#2) are training in the Neutral Buoyancy Simulator (NBS) at Marshall Space Flight center with an exercise for International Space Station Alpha. The NBS provided the weightless environment encountered in space needed for testing and the practices of Extravehicular Activities (EVA).

DEVELOPMENT OF AN ADJUSTABLE BUOYANCY BALLOON TRACER OF ATMOSPHERIC MOTION. PHASE 1. SYSTEMS DESIGN AND DEMONSTRATION OF FEASIBILITY

EPA Science Inventory

An Adjustable Buoyancy Balloon Tracer of Atmospheric Motion is a research tool which allows one to follow atmospheric flows in both the horizontal and the vertical, including the weak, sustained vertical motion associated with meso- and synoptic- scale atmospheric disturbances. T...

Buoyancy driven acceleration in a hospital operating room indoor environment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

McNeill, James; Hertzberg, Jean; Zhai, John

2011-11-01

In hospital operating rooms, centrally located non-isothermal ceiling jets provide sterile air for protecting the surgical site from infectious particles in the room air as well as room cooling. Modern operating rooms are requiring larger temperature differences to accommodate increasing cooling loads for heat gains from medical equipment. This trend may lead to significant changes in the room air distribution patterns that may sacrifice the sterile air field across the surgical table. Quantitative flow visualization experiments using laser sheet illumination and RANS modeling of the indoor environment were conducted to demonstrate the impact of the indoor environment thermal conditions on the room air distribution. The angle of the jet shear layer was studied as function of the area of the vena contracta of the jet, which is in turn dependent upon the Archimedes number of the jet. Increases in the buoyancy forces cause greater air velocities in the vicinity of the surgical site increasing the likelihood of deposition of contaminants in the flow field. The outcome of this study shows the Archimedes number should be used as the design parameter for hospital operating room air distribution in order to maintain a proper supply air jet for covering the sterile region. This work is supported by ASHRAE.

Lornoxicam gastro retentive floating matrix tablets: Design and in vitro evaluation.

PubMed

Sathiyaraj, S; Devi, Ramya D; Hari, Vedha B N

2011-07-01

The objective of this present investigation is to prolong the gastric residence time of Lornoxicam by fabricating it into a floating sustained release matrix tablets. Lornoxicam, a potent oxicam group of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, suffers from relatively short half life of 2 to 3 hrs showing maximal absorption in proximal gastro intestinal tract region necessitating its need to be formulated as a floating sustained release matrix tablets. In this current investigation, hydroxyl propyl methyl cellulose K15M, a high viscous grade polymer with apparent viscosity of 15,000 cps, was kept as a variable (10-50%) and calcium carbonate (13%) was used as a gas generator. The prepared blends were subjected for its pre-formulation characterization. The directly compressed tablets were evaluated for physical parameters such as weight uniformity, hardness, friability, drug content, in-vitro buoyancy with axial and radial enlargement measurement, swelling index. From the investigation it was observed that the buoyancy lasted for up to 24 hrs. Fourier transform infra-red spectroscopy peaks assured the compatibility of the drug with excipients and confirmed the presence of pure drug in the formulation. It was supported by in-vitro dissolution studies; and the dissolution data was subjected to various release kinetic models to understand the mechanism of drug release.

Hydrodynamics and propulsion mechanism of self-propelled catalytic micromotors: model and experiment.

PubMed

Li, Longqiu; Wang, Jiyuan; Li, Tianlong; Song, Wenping; Zhang, Guangyu

2014-10-14

The hydrodynamic behavior and propulsion mechanism of self-propelled micromotors are studied theoretically and experimentally. A hydrodynamic model to describe bubble growth and detachment is proposed to investigate the mechanism of a self-propelled conical tubular catalytic micromotor considering bubble geometric asymmetry and buoyancy force. The growth force caused by the growth of the bubble surface against the fluid is the driving force for micromotor motion. Also, the buoyancy force plays a primary role in bubble detachment. The effect of geometrical parameters on the micromotor velocity and drag force is presented. The bubble radius ratio is investigated for different micromotor radii to determine its hydrodynamic behavior during bubble ejection. The average micromotor velocity is found to be strongly dependent on the semi-cone angle, expelling frequency and bubble radius ratio. The semi-cone angle has a significant effect on the expelling frequency for conical tubular micromotors. The predicted results are compared to already existing experimental data for cylindrical micromotors (semi-cone angle δ = 0°) and conical micromotors. A good agreement is found between the theoretical calculation and experimental results. This model provides a profound explanation for the propulsion mechanism of a catalytic micromotor and can be used to optimize the micromotor design for its biomedical and environmental applications.

Particle dynamics and pattern formation in a rotating suspension of positively buoyant particles

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Konidena, Sudarshan; Lee, Jonghoon; Reddy, K. Anki; Singh, Anugrah

2018-04-01

Numerical simulations of positively buoyant suspension in a horizontally rotating cylinder were performed to study the formation of radial and axial patterns. The order parameter for the low-frequency segregated phase and dispersed phase is similar to that predicted for the settling suspension by Lee and Ladd [J. Fluid Mech. 577, 183 (2007), 10.1017/S002211200700465X], which is the average angular velocity of the particles. The particle density profiles for axial bands in the buoyancy-dominated phase shows an amplitude equivalent to the diameter of the cylinder. Axial density profiles show sinusoidal behavior for the drag-dominant phase and oscillating sinusoidal behavior for the centrifugal-force-dominant phase. Results also indicate that the traveling bands are formed as a consequence of the inhomogeneous distribution of particles arising from a certain imbalance of drag, buoyancy, and centrifugal forces. In the centrifugal limit, particles move towards the center of the cylinder, aggregating to form a dense core of particles with its axis coinciding with that of the rotating cylinder, a behavior which is in contrast to the sedimenting particles. The particle distribution patterns obtained from the simulations are found to be in good agreement with the experiments of Kalyankar et al. [Phys. Fluids 20, 083301 (2008), 10.1063/1.2970156].

Ignition of Cellulosic Paper at Low Radiant Fluxes

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

White, K. Alan

1996-01-01

The ignition of cellulosic paper by low level thermal radiation is investigated. Past work on radiative ignition of paper is briefly reviewed. No experimental study has been reported for radiative ignition of paper at irradiances below 10 Watts/sq.cm. An experimental study of radiative ignition of paper at these low irradiances is reported. Experimental parameters investigated and discussed include radiant power levels incident on the sample, the method of applying the radiation (focussed vs. diffuse Gaussian source), the presence and relative position of a separate pilot ignition source, and the effects of natural convection (buoyancy) on the ignition process in a normal gravity environment. It is observed that the incident radiative flux (in W/sq.cm) has the greatest influence on ignition time. For a given flux level, a focussed Gaussian source is found to be advantageous to a more diffuse, lower amplitude, thermal source. The precise positioning of a pilot igniter relative to gravity and to the fuel sample affects the ignition process, but the precise effects are not fully understood. Ignition was more readily achieved and sustained with a horizontal fuel sample, indicating the buoyancy plays a role in the ignition process of cellulosic paper. Smoldering combustion of doped paper samples was briefly investigated, and results are discussed.

Dynamics of Vapour Bubbles in Nucleate Boiling. 2; Evolution of Thermally Controlled Bubbles

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Buyevich, Yu A.; Webbon, Bruce W.; Callaway, Robert (Technical Monitor)

1995-01-01

The previously developed dynamic theory of growth and detachment of vapour bubbles under conditions of nucleate pool boiling is applied to study motion and deformation of a bubble evolving at a single nucleation site. The bubble growth is presumed to be thermally controlled, and two components of heat transfer to the bubble are accounted of: the one from the bulk of surrounding liquid and the one due to heat conduction across a liquid microlayer formed underneath the bubble. Bubble evolution is governed by the buoyancy and an effective surface tension force, both the forces making the bubble centre of mass move away from the wall and, thus, assisting its detachment. Buoyancy-controlled and surface-tension-controlled regimes are considered separately in a meticulous way. The duration of the whole process of bubble evolution till detachment, the rate of growth, and the bubble departure size are found as functions of time and physical and operating parameters. Some repeatedly observed phenomena, such as an influence of gravity on the growth rate, are explained. Inferences of the model agree qualitatively with available experimental evidence, and conclusions pertaining to the dependence on gravity of the bubble radius at detachment and the whole time of the bubble development when being attached to the wall are confirmed quantitatively.

Magnetic Control of Convection in Electrically Nonconducting Fluids

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Huang, Jie; Gray, Donald D.; Edwards, Boyd F.

1999-01-01

Inhomogeneous magnetic fields exert a body force on electrically nonconducting, magnetically permeable fluids. This force can be used to compensate for gravity and to control convection. The effects of uniform and nonuniform magnetic fields on a laterally unbounded fluid layer heated from below or above are studied using a linear stability analysis of the Navier-Stokes equations supplemented by Maxwell's equations and the appropriate magnetic body force. For a uniform oblique field, the analysis shows that longitudinal rolls with axes parallel to the horizontal component of the field are the rolls most unstable to convection. The corresponding critical Rayleigh number and critical wavelength for the onset of such rolls are less than the well-known Rayleigh-Benard values in the absence of magnetic fields. Vertical fields maximize these deviations, which vanish for horizontal fields. Horizontal fields increase the critical Rayleigh number and the critical wavelength for all rolls except longitudinal rolls. For a nonuniform field, our analysis shows that the magnetic effect on convection is represented by a dimensionless vector parameter which measures the relative strength of the induced magnetic buoyancy force due to the applied field gradient. The vertical component of this parameter competes with the gravitational buoyancy effect, and a critical relationship between this component and the Rayleigh number is identified for the onset of convection. Therefore, Rayleigh-Benard convection in such fluids can be enhanced or suppressed by the field. It also shows that magnetothermal convection is possible in both paramagnetic and diamagnetic fluids. Our theoretical predictions for paramagnetic fluids agree with experiments. Magnetically driven convection in diamagnetic fluids should be observable even in pure water using current technology.

Cross-diffusion-driven hydrodynamic instabilities in a double-layer system: General classification and nonlinear simulations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Budroni, M. A.

2015-12-01

Cross diffusion, whereby a flux of a given species entrains the diffusive transport of another species, can trigger buoyancy-driven hydrodynamic instabilities at the interface of initially stable stratifications. Starting from a simple three-component case, we introduce a theoretical framework to classify cross-diffusion-induced hydrodynamic phenomena in two-layer stratifications under the action of the gravitational field. A cross-diffusion-convection (CDC) model is derived by coupling the fickian diffusion formalism to Stokes equations. In order to isolate the effect of cross-diffusion in the convective destabilization of a double-layer system, we impose a starting concentration jump of one species in the bottom layer while the other one is homogeneously distributed over the spatial domain. This initial configuration avoids the concurrence of classic Rayleigh-Taylor or differential-diffusion convective instabilities, and it also allows us to activate selectively the cross-diffusion feedback by which the heterogeneously distributed species influences the diffusive transport of the other species. We identify two types of hydrodynamic modes [the negative cross-diffusion-driven convection (NCC) and the positive cross-diffusion-driven convection (PCC)], corresponding to the sign of this operational cross-diffusion term. By studying the space-time density profiles along the gravitational axis we obtain analytical conditions for the onset of convection in terms of two important parameters only: the operational cross-diffusivity and the buoyancy ratio, giving the relative contribution of the two species to the global density. The general classification of the NCC and PCC scenarios in such parameter space is supported by numerical simulations of the fully nonlinear CDC problem. The resulting convective patterns compare favorably with recent experimental results found in microemulsion systems.

Mixed convection and heat generation/absorption aspects in MHD flow of tangent-hyperbolic nanoliquid with Newtonian heat/mass transfer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Qayyum, Sajid; Hayat, Tasawar; Shehzad, Sabir Ali; Alsaedi, Ahmed

2018-03-01

This article concentrates on the magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) stagnation point flow of tangent hyperbolic nanofluid in the presence of buoyancy forces. Flow analysis caused due to stretching surface. Characteristics of heat transfer are examined under the influence of thermal radiation and heat generation/absorption. Newtonian conditions for heat and mass transfer are employed. Nanofluid model includes Brownian motion and thermophoresis. The governing nonlinear partial differential systems of the problem are transformed into a systems of nonlinear ordinary differential equations through appropriate variables. Impact of embedded parameters on the velocity, temperature and nanoparticle concentration fields are presented graphically. Numerical computations are made to obtain the values of skin friction coefficient, local Nusselt and Sherwood numbers. It is concluded that velocity field enhances in the frame of mixed convection parameter while reverse situation is observed due to power law index. Effect of Brownian motion parameter on the temperature and heat transfer rate is quite reverse. Moreover impact of solutal conjugate parameter on the concentration and local Sherwood number is quite similar.

Parametric instability and wave turbulence driven by tidal excitation of internal waves

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Le Reun, Thomas; Favier, Benjamin; Le Bars, Michael

2018-04-01

We investigate the stability of stratified fluid layers undergoing homogeneous and periodic tidal deformation. We first introduce a local model which allows to study velocity and buoyancy fluctuations in a Lagrangian domain periodically stretched and sheared by the tidal base flow. While keeping the key physical ingredients only, such a model is efficient to simulate planetary regimes where tidal amplitudes and dissipation are small. With this model, we prove that tidal flows are able to drive parametric subharmonic resonances of internal waves, in a way reminiscent of the elliptical instability in rotating fluids. The growth rates computed via Direct Numerical Simulations (DNS) are in very good agreement with WKB analysis and Floquet theory. We also investigate the turbulence driven by this instability mechanism. With spatio-temporal analysis, we show that it is a weak internal wave turbulence occurring at small Froude and buoyancy Reynolds numbers. When the gap between the excitation and the Brunt-V\\"ais\\"al\\"a frequencies is increased, the frequency spectrum of this wave turbulence displays a -2 power law reminiscent of the high-frequency branch of the Garett and Munk spectrum (Garrett & Munk 1979) which has been measured in the oceans. In addition, we find that the mixing efficiency is altered compared to what is computed in the context of DNS of stratified turbulence excited at small Froude and large buoyancy Reynolds numbers and is consistent with a superposition of waves.

Multiple Steady States of Buoyancy Induced Flow in Cold Water and Their Stability.

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

El-Henawy, Ibrahim Mahmoud

In Chapters 1 and 2 the physical background and the literature related to buoyancy-induced flows are reviewed. An accurate representation, based upon experimental data, of the motion-causing buoyancy force, in the vicinity of maximum density in pure water at low temperatures, is used. This representation is an accurate and quite simple formulation due to Gebhart and Mollendorf (1977). Using the representation, we study, numerically, Chapter 3, a model for the laminar, boundary-layer flow arising from natural convection adjacent to a vertical isothermal flat surface submerged in quiescent cold water. The results demonstrate for the first time the existence of multiple steady-state solutions in a natural convection flow. The existence of these new multiple steady-state solutions led to an investigation of their stability. This is carried out in Chapter 4 by a mathematical method, different from that of the usual hydrodynamic stability approach, Lin (1955) and Razinand and Reid (1982). Three real eigenvalue and eigenvector pairs corresponding to the new steady-state -solutions were found. Each of these eigenvalues changes its algebraic sign at a particular limit point (point of vertical tangency, nose, knee) in the bifurcation diagrams found in Chapter 3. The results indicate that the new steady-state solutions are unstable and that the previously found steady-state solutions, Carey, Gebhart, and Mollendorf (1980), may be stable.

Analysis of monthly variability of thermocline in the South China Sea

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Peng, Hanbang; Pan, Aijun; Zheng, Quan'an; Hu, Jianyu

2018-03-01

This study analyzes monthly variability of thermocline and its mechanism in the South China Sea (SCS). The study is based on 51-year (1960-2010) monthly seawater temperature and surface wind stress data from Simple Ocean Data Assimilation (SODA), together with heat flux, precipitation and evaporation data from the National Centers for Environmental Prediction (NCEP), the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, respectively. The results reveal that the upper boundary depth ( Z up), lower boundary depth ( Z low), thickness (Δ Z) and intensity ( T z ) of thermocline in the SCS show remarkable monthly variability. Being averaged for the deep basin of SCS, Z up deepens gradually from May to the following January and then shoals from February to May, while Z low varies little throughout the whole year. Further diagnostics indicates that the monthly variability of Z up is mainly caused by the buoyancy flux and wind stress curl. Using a linear method, the impacts of the buoyancy flux and wind stress curl on Z up can be quantitatively distinguished. The results suggest that Z up tends to deepen about 4.6 m when the buoyancy flux increases by 1×10 -5 kg/(m•s 3), while it shoals about 2.5 m when the wind stress curl strengthens by 1×10 -7 N/m³.

Tipsy punters: sauropod dinosaur pneumaticity, buoyancy and aquatic habits.

PubMed

Henderson, Donald M

2004-05-07

Sauropod dinosaurs were the largest terrestrial animals to have ever existed, and are difficult to interpret as living animals owing to their lack of living descendants. With computer models that employ the basic physics of buoyancy and equilibrium, it is possible to investigate how the bodies of these animals would have reacted when immersed in water. Multi-tonne sauropods are found to be extremely buoyant and unstable in water when aspects of their probable respiratory anatomy are considered, which obviates the old problem of them being unable to breathe when fully immersed. Interpretations of 'manus-only' trackways made by floating sauropods will depend on the details of buoyancy as not all sauropods float in the same manner.

Neutral buoyancy and sleep-deprived serum factors alter expression of cytokines regulating osteogenesis

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gorczynski, Reginald M.; Gorczynski, Christopher P.; Gorczynski, Laura Y.; Hu, Jiang; Lu, Jin; Manuel, Justin; Lee, Lydia

2005-05-01

We examined expression of genes associated with cytokine production, and genes implicated in regulating bone metabolism, in bone stromal and osteoblast cells incubated under standard ground conditions and under conditions of neutral buoyancy, and in the presence/absence of serum from normal or sleep-deprived mice. We observed a clear interaction between these two conditions (exposure to neutral buoyancy and serum stimulation) in promoting enhanced osteoclastogenesis. Both conditions independently altered expression of a number of cytokines implicated in the regulation of bone metabolism. However, using stromal cells from IL-1 and TNF α cytokine r KO mice, we concluded that the increased bone loss under microgravity conditions was not primarily cytokine mediated.

Launch Deployment Assembly Extravehicular Activity Neutral Buoyancy Development Test Report

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Loughead, T.

1996-01-01

This test evaluated the Launch Deployment Assembly (LDA) design for Extravehicular Activity (EVA) work sites (setup, igress, egress), reach and visual access, and translation required for cargo item removal. As part of the LDA design, this document describes the method and results of the LDA EVA Neutral Buoyancy Development Test to ensure that the LDA hardware support the deployment of the cargo items from the pallet. This document includes the test objectives, flight and mockup hardware description, descriptions of procedures and data collection used in the testing, and the results of the development test at the National Aeronautics and Space Administrations (NASA) Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) Neutral Buoyancy Simulator (NBS).

Gravity and Heater Size Effects on Pool Boiling Heat Transfer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Kim, Jungho; Raj, Rishi

2014-01-01

The current work is based on observations of boiling heat transfer over a continuous range of gravity levels between 0g to 1.8g and varying heater sizes with a fluorinert as the test liquid (FC-72/n-perfluorohexane). Variable gravity pool boiling heat transfer measurements over a wide range of gravity levels were made during parabolic flight campaigns as well as onboard the International Space Station. For large heaters and-or higher gravity conditions, buoyancy dominated boiling and heat transfer results were heater size independent. The power law coefficient for gravity in the heat transfer equation was found to be a function of wall temperature under these conditions. Under low gravity conditions and-or for smaller heaters, surface tension forces dominated and heat transfer results were heater size dependent. A pool boiling regime map differentiating buoyancy and surface tension dominated regimes was developed along with a unified framework that allowed for scaling of pool boiling over a wide range of gravity levels and heater sizes. The scaling laws developed in this study are expected to allow performance quantification of phase change based technologies under variable gravity environments eventually leading to their implementation in space based applications.

Study of the thermal internal boundary layer during sea-breeze events in the complex coastal area of Marseille

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Calmet, Isabelle; Mestayer, Patrice

2016-02-01

A revisit of two sea-breeze episodes is presented, based on higher spatial resolution large eddy simulations (LES) of the lower atmosphere over the coastal area of Marseille and measurements obtained during the June 2001 experimental campaign UBL-ESCOMPTE. The focus is on the development of thermal internal boundary layers (TIBL) over a complex topography: the dynamic and thermal mechanisms that contribute to the TIBL growth and its further degeneration into a convective mixed layer, the respective influences of the coast shape, the large-scale flow above and the local low-level slope flows. The high-resolution LES permits exploring the potential temperature and turbulent kinetic energy fields in relation with the evolution of TIBL depth and heat fluxes along representative streamlines. Several theoretical TIBL depth models are further compared to the LES-deduced inversion height and other parameters, leading to a discussion of the relationships between the values of these parameters, the respective influences of the governing physical phenomena, and the TIBL behaviour. A threshold value of 0.35 is proposed for the friction velocity to convective velocity scale ratio u */ w * between the two regimes where the TIBL is either dominated by dynamical kinetic energy production or controlled by buoyancy.

Defining the ecologically relevant mixed-layer depth for Antarctica's coastal seas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Carvalho, Filipa; Kohut, Josh; Oliver, Matthew J.; Schofield, Oscar

2017-01-01

Mixed-layer depth (MLD) has been widely linked to phytoplankton dynamics in Antarctica's coastal regions; however, inconsistent definitions have made intercomparisons among region-specific studies difficult. Using a data set with over 20,000 water column profiles corresponding to 32 Slocum glider deployments in three coastal Antarctic regions (Ross Sea, Amundsen Sea, and West Antarctic Peninsula), we evaluated the relationship between MLD and phytoplankton vertical distribution. Comparisons of these MLD estimates to an applied definition of phytoplankton bloom depth, as defined by the deepest inflection point in the chlorophyll profile, show that the maximum of buoyancy frequency is a good proxy for an ecologically relevant MLD. A quality index is used to filter profiles where MLD is not determined. Despite the different regional physical settings, we found that the MLD definition based on the maximum of buoyancy frequency best describes the depth to which phytoplankton can be mixed in Antarctica's coastal seas.

Strength of plate coupling in the southern Ryukyu subduction zone

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Doo, Wen-Bin; Lo, Chung-Liang; Wu, Wen-Nan; Lin, Jing-Yi; Hsu, Shu-Kun; Huang, Yin-Sheng; Wang, Hsueh-Fen

2018-01-01

Understanding the strength of a plate coupling is critical for assessing potential seismic and tsunamic hazards in subduction zones. The interaction between an overriding plate and the associated subducting plate can be used to evaluate the strength of plate coupling by examining the mantle lithospheric buoyancy. Here, we calculate the mantle lithosphere buoyancy across the northern portion of the southern Ryukyu subduction zone based on gravity modeling with the constraints from a newly derived P-wave seismic velocity model. The result indicates that the strength of the plate coupling in the study area is relatively strong, which is consistent with previous observations in the southernmost Ryukyu subduction zone. Because few large earthquakes (Mw > 7) have occurred in the southern Ryukyu subduction zone, a large amount of energy is locked and accumulated by plate coupling, that could be released in the near future.

Numerical modeling of Bridgman growth of PbSnTe in a magnetic field

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Yao, Minwu; Chait, Arnon; Fripp, Archibald L.; Debnam, William J.

1995-01-01

In this work we study heat and mass transport, fluid motion, and solid/liquid phase change in the process of steady Bridgman growth of Pb(.8)Sn(.2)Te (LTT) in an axially-imposed uniform magnetic field under terrestrial and microgravity conditions. In particular, this research is concerned with the interrelationships among segregation, buoyancy-driven convection, and magnetic damping in the LTT melt. The main objectives are to provide a quantitative understanding of the complex transport phenomena during solidification of the nondilute binary of LTT, to provide estimates of the strength of magnetic field required to achieve the desired diffusion-dominated growth, and to assess the role of magnetic damping for space and earth based control of the buoyancy-induced convection. The problem was solved by using FIDAP and numerical results for both vertical and horizontal growth configurations with respect to the acceleration of gravity vector are presented.

Rotating reactor studies

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Roberts, Glyn O.

1991-01-01

Undesired gravitational effects such as convection or sedimentation in a fluid can sometimes be avoided or decreased by the use of a closed chamber uniformly rotated about a horizontal axis. In a previous study, the spiral orbits of a heavy or buoyant particle in a uniformly rotating fluid were determined. The particles move in circles, and spiral in or out under the combined effects of the centrifugal force and centrifugal buoyancy. A optimization problem for the rotation rate of a cylindrical reactor rotated about its axis and containing distributed particles was formulated and solved. Related studies in several areas are addressed. A computer program based on the analysis was upgraded by correcting some minor errors, adding a sophisticated screen-and-printer graphics capability and other output options, and by improving the automation. The design, performance, and analysis of a series of experiments with monodisperse polystyrene latex microspheres in water were supported to test the theory and its limitations. The theory was amply confirmed at high rotation rates. However, at low rotation rates (1 rpm or less) the assumption of uniform solid-body rotation of the fluid became invalid, and there were increasingly strong secondary motions driven by variations in the mean fluid density due to variations in the particle concentration. In these tests the increase in the mean fluid density due to the particles was of order 0.015 percent. To a first approximation, these flows are driven by the buoyancy in a thin crescent-shaped depleted layer on the descending side of the rotating reactor. This buoyancy distribution is balanced by viscosity near the walls, and by the Coriolis force in the interior. A full analysis is beyond the scope of this study. Secondary flows are likely to be stronger for buoyant particles, which spiral in towards the neutral point near the rotation axis under the influence of their centrifugal buoyancy. This is because the depleted layer is thicker and extends all the way around the reactor.

Fluid Physics and Macromolecular Crystal Growth in Microgravity

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pusey, M.; Snell, E.; Judge, R.; Chayen, N.; Boggon, T.

2000-01-01

The molecular structure of biological macromolecules is important in understanding how these molecules work and has direct application to rational drug design for new medicines and for the improvement and development of industrial enzymes. In order to obtain the molecular structure, large, well formed, single macromolecule crystals are required. The growth of macromolecule crystals is a difficult task and is often hampered on the ground by fluid flows that result from the interaction of gravity with the crystal growth process. One such effect is the bulk movement of the crystal through the fluid due to sedimentation. A second is buoyancy driven convection close to the crystal surface. On the ground the crystallization process itself induces both of these flows. Buoyancy driven convection results from density differences between the bulk solution and fluid close to the crystal surface which has been depleted of macromolecules due to crystal growth. Schlieren photograph of a growing lysozyme crystal illustrating a 'growth plume' resulting from buoyancy driven convection. Both sedimentation and buoyancy driven convection have a negative effect on crystal growth and microgravity is seen as a way to both greatly reduce sedimentation and provide greater stability for 'depletion zones' around growing crystals. Some current crystal growth hardware however such as those based on a vapor diffusion techniques, may also be introducing unwanted Marangoni convection which becomes more pronounced in microgravity. Negative effects of g-jitter on crystal growth have also been observed. To study the magnitude of fluid flows around growing crystals we have attached a number of different fluorescent probes to lysozyme molecules. At low concentrations, less than 40% of the total protein, the probes do not appear to effect the crystal growth process. By using these probes we expect to determine not only the effect of induced flows due to crystal growth hardware design but also hope to optimize crystallization hardware so that destructive flows are minimized both on the ground and in microgravity.

Preschoolers' Reasoning about Density: Will It Float?

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Kohn, Amy S.

1993-01-01

A buoyancy prediction test was developed to access preschoolers' early understanding of density. Two- to five-year-olds and college students make predictions about the buoyancy of a set of objects that varied in density, weight, and volume. Found that children aged four and five demonstrated patterns of judgment similar to those of the college…

MSFC Skylab neutral buoyancy simulator

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1974-01-01

The use of a neutral buoyancy simulator for developing extravehicular activity systems and for training astronauts in weightless activities is discussed. The construction of the facility and the operations are described. The types of tests and the training activities conducted in the simulator are reported. Photographs of the components of the simulator and actual training exercises are included.

"'Sink or Swim': Buoyancy and Coping in the Cognitive Test Anxiety--Academic Performance Relationship"

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Putwain, David W.; Daly, Anthony L.; Chamberlain, Suzanne; Sadreddini, Shireen

2016-01-01

This study explores the relationship between students' self-report levels of cognitive test anxiety (worry), academic buoyancy (withstanding and successfully responding to routine school challenges and setbacks), coping processes and their achieved grades in high-stakes national examinations at the end of compulsory schooling. The sample comprised…

Dr. von Braun Tries Out the Neutral Buoyancy Simulator (NBS)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1967-01-01

Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) Director, Dr. von Braun, is shown leaving the suiting-up van wearing a pressure suit prepared for a tryout in the MSFC Neutral Buoyancy Simulator (NBS). Weighted to a neutrally buoyant condition, Dr. von Braun was able to perform tasks underwater which simulated weightless conditions found in space.

Investigating Students' Ideas about Buoyancy and the Influence of Haptic Feedback

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Minogue, James; Borland, David

2016-01-01

While haptics (simulated touch) represents a potential breakthrough technology for science teaching and learning, there is relatively little research into its differential impact in the context of teaching and learning. This paper describes the testing of a haptically enhanced simulation (HES) for learning about buoyancy. Despite a lifetime of…

A comparative study of buoyancy duration in Carya aquatica, Carya illinoinensis, and Carya x lecontei seeds

USDA-ARS?s Scientific Manuscript database

A characteristic of Carya species is that their seeds are buoyant. The different physical properties of Carya seeds, such as oil composition and air-filled cavities, may contribute to this buoyancy. Carya aquatica (water hickory) and Carya illinoinensis (pecan) trees are found along streams and riv...

Simulations of buoyancy-generated horizontal roll vortices over multiple heating lines

Treesearch

W.E. Heilman

1994-01-01

A two-dimensional nonhydrostatic atmospheric model is used to simulate the boundary-layer circulations that develop from multiple lines of extremely high surface temperatures. Numerical simulations are carried out to investigate the role of buoyancy and ambient crossflow effects in generating horizontal roll vortices in the vicinity of adjacent wildland fire perimeters...

Regimes of Coriolis-Centrifugal Convection

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Horn, Susanne; Aurnou, Jonathan M.

2018-05-01

Centrifugal buoyancy affects all rotating turbulent convection phenomena, but is conventionally ignored in rotating convection studies. Here, we include centrifugal buoyancy to investigate what we call Coriolis-centrifugal convection (C3 ), characterizing two so far unexplored regimes, one where the flow is in quasicyclostrophic balance (QC regime) and another where the flow is in a triple balance between pressure gradient, Coriolis and centrifugal buoyancy forces (CC regime). The transition to centrifugally dominated dynamics occurs when the Froude number Fr equals the radius-to-height aspect ratio γ . Hence, turbulent convection experiments with small γ may encounter centrifugal effects at lower Fr than traditionally expected. Further, we show analytically that the direct effect of centrifugal buoyancy yields a reduction of the Nusselt number Nu. However, indirectly, it can cause a simultaneous increase of the viscous dissipation and thereby Nu through a change of the flow morphology. These direct and indirect effects yield a net Nu suppression in the CC regime and a net Nu enhancement in the QC regime. In addition, we demonstrate that C3 may provide a simplified, yet self-consistent, model system for tornadoes, hurricanes, and typhoons.

Regimes of Coriolis-Centrifugal Convection.

PubMed

Horn, Susanne; Aurnou, Jonathan M

2018-05-18

Centrifugal buoyancy affects all rotating turbulent convection phenomena, but is conventionally ignored in rotating convection studies. Here, we include centrifugal buoyancy to investigate what we call Coriolis-centrifugal convection (C^{3}), characterizing two so far unexplored regimes, one where the flow is in quasicyclostrophic balance (QC regime) and another where the flow is in a triple balance between pressure gradient, Coriolis and centrifugal buoyancy forces (CC regime). The transition to centrifugally dominated dynamics occurs when the Froude number Fr equals the radius-to-height aspect ratio γ. Hence, turbulent convection experiments with small γ may encounter centrifugal effects at lower Fr than traditionally expected. Further, we show analytically that the direct effect of centrifugal buoyancy yields a reduction of the Nusselt number Nu. However, indirectly, it can cause a simultaneous increase of the viscous dissipation and thereby Nu through a change of the flow morphology. These direct and indirect effects yield a net Nu suppression in the CC regime and a net Nu enhancement in the QC regime. In addition, we demonstrate that C^{3} may provide a simplified, yet self-consistent, model system for tornadoes, hurricanes, and typhoons.

Schlieren Measurements of Buoyancy Effects on Flow Transition in Low-Density Gas Jets

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pasumarthi, Kasyap S.; Agrawal, Ajay K.

2005-01-01

The transition from laminar to turbulent flow in helium jets discharged into air was studied using Rainbow Schlieren Deflectometry technique. In particular, the effects of buoyancy on jet oscillations and flow transition length were considered. Experiments to simulate microgravity were conducted in the 2.2s drop tower at NASA Glenn Research Center. The jet Reynolds numbers varied from 800 to1200 and the jet Richardson numbers ranged between 0.01 and 0.004. Schlieren images revealed substantial variations in the flow structure during the drop. Fast Fourier Transform (FFT) analysis of the data obtained in Earth gravity experiments revealed the existence of a discrete oscillating frequency in the transition region, which matched the frequency in the upstream laminar regime. In microgravity, the transition occurred farther downstream indicating laminarization of the jet in the absence of buoyancy. The amplitude of jet oscillations was reduced by up to an order of magnitude in microgravity. Results suggest that jet oscillations were buoyancy induced and that the brief microgravity period may not be sufficient for the oscillations to completely subside.

Buoyancy Effects in Strongly-Pulsed, Turbulent Diffusion Flames

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hermanson, James; Johari, Hamid; Stocker, Dennis; Hegde, Uday

2004-11-01

Buoyancy effects in pulsed, turbulent flames are studied in microgravity in a 2.2 s drop-tower. The fuel is pure ethylene or a 50/50 mixture with nitrogen; the oxidizer co-flow is either air or 30% oxygen in nitrogen. A fast solenoid valve fully modulates (shuts off) the fuel flow between pulses. The jet Reynolds number is 5000 with a nozzle i.d. of 2 mm. For short injection times and small duty cycle (jet-on fraction), compact, puff-like flames occur. The invariance in flame length of these puffs with buoyancy is due to offsetting changes in puff celerity and burnout time. Buoyancy does impact interacting flame puffs, with the flame length generally increasing with injection duty cycle. The mean centerline temperatures for all flames are generally higher in microgravity than in normal gravity. The transition in temperatures with increasing injection time is more gradual in micro-g than in 1-g. These observations can be explained in terms of the local duty cycle in the flame and differences in entrainment in normal- vs. microgravity.

Floating wind turbine system

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Viterna, Larry A. (Inventor)

2009-01-01

A floating wind turbine system with a tower structure that includes at least one stability arm extending therefrom and that is anchored to the sea floor with a rotatable position retention device that facilitates deep water installations. Variable buoyancy for the wind turbine system is provided by buoyancy chambers that are integral to the tower itself as well as the stability arm. Pumps are included for adjusting the buoyancy as an aid in system transport, installation, repair and removal. The wind turbine rotor is located downwind of the tower structure to allow the wind turbine to follow the wind direction without an active yaw drive system. The support tower and stability arm structure is designed to balance tension in the tether with buoyancy, gravity and wind forces in such a way that the top of the support tower leans downwind, providing a large clearance between the support tower and the rotor blade tips. This large clearance facilitates the use of articulated rotor hubs to reduced damaging structural dynamic loads. Major components of the turbine can be assembled at the shore and transported to an offshore installation site.

Kinematics and dynamics of the East Pacific Rise linked to a stable, deep-mantle upwelling [Kinematics and dynamics of the East Pacific Rise linked to whole mantel convective motions

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Rowley, David B.; Forte, Alessandro M.; Rowan, Christopher J.

Earth’s tectonic plates are generally considered to be driven largely by negative buoyancy associated with subduction of oceanic lithosphere. In this context, mid-ocean ridges (MORs) are passive plate boundaries whose divergence accommodates flow driven by subduction of oceanic slabs at trenches. We show that over the past 80 million years (My), the East Pacific Rise (EPR), Earth’s dominant MOR, has been characterized by limited ridge-perpendicular migration and persistent, asymmetric ridge accretion that are anomalous relative to other MORs. We reconstruct the subduction-related buoyancy fluxes of plates on either side of the EPR. The general expectation is that greater slab pullmore » should correlate with faster plate motion and faster spreading at the EPR. Moreover, asymmetry in slab pull on either side of the EPR should correlate with either ridge migration or enhanced plate velocity in the direction of greater slab pull. Based on our analysis, none of the expected correlations are evident. This implies that other forces significantly contribute to EPR behavior. We explain these observations using mantle flow calculations based on globally integrated buoyancy distributions that require core-mantle boundary heat flux of up to 20 TW. The time-dependent mantle flow predictions yield a long-lived deep-seated upwelling that has its highest radial velocity under the EPR and is inferred to control its observed kinematics. Lastly, the mantle-wide upwelling beneath the EPR drives horizontal components of asthenospheric flows beneath the plates that are similarly asymmetric but faster than the overlying surface plates, thereby contributing to plate motions through viscous tractions in the Pacific region.« less

Kinematics and dynamics of the East Pacific Rise linked to a stable, deep-mantle upwelling [Kinematics and dynamics of the East Pacific Rise linked to whole mantel convective motions

DOE PAGES

Rowley, David B.; Forte, Alessandro M.; Rowan, Christopher J.; ...

2016-12-23

Earth’s tectonic plates are generally considered to be driven largely by negative buoyancy associated with subduction of oceanic lithosphere. In this context, mid-ocean ridges (MORs) are passive plate boundaries whose divergence accommodates flow driven by subduction of oceanic slabs at trenches. We show that over the past 80 million years (My), the East Pacific Rise (EPR), Earth’s dominant MOR, has been characterized by limited ridge-perpendicular migration and persistent, asymmetric ridge accretion that are anomalous relative to other MORs. We reconstruct the subduction-related buoyancy fluxes of plates on either side of the EPR. The general expectation is that greater slab pullmore » should correlate with faster plate motion and faster spreading at the EPR. Moreover, asymmetry in slab pull on either side of the EPR should correlate with either ridge migration or enhanced plate velocity in the direction of greater slab pull. Based on our analysis, none of the expected correlations are evident. This implies that other forces significantly contribute to EPR behavior. We explain these observations using mantle flow calculations based on globally integrated buoyancy distributions that require core-mantle boundary heat flux of up to 20 TW. The time-dependent mantle flow predictions yield a long-lived deep-seated upwelling that has its highest radial velocity under the EPR and is inferred to control its observed kinematics. Lastly, the mantle-wide upwelling beneath the EPR drives horizontal components of asthenospheric flows beneath the plates that are similarly asymmetric but faster than the overlying surface plates, thereby contributing to plate motions through viscous tractions in the Pacific region.« less

Isothermal pumping analysis for high-altitude tethered balloons

PubMed Central

Kuo, Kirsty A.; Hunt, Hugh E. M.

2015-01-01

High-altitude tethered balloons have potential applications in communications, surveillance, meteorological observations and climate engineering. To maintain balloon buoyancy, power fuel cells and perturb atmospheric conditions, fluids could be pumped from ground level to altitude using the tether as a hose. This paper examines the pumping requirements of such a delivery system. Cases considered include delivery of hydrogen, sulfur dioxide (SO2) and powders as fluid-based slurries. Isothermal analysis is used to determine the variation of pressures and velocities along the pipe length. Results show that transport of small quantities of hydrogen to power fuel cells and maintain balloon buoyancy can be achieved at pressures and temperatures that are tolerable in terms of both the pipe strength and the current state of pumping technologies. To avoid solidification, transport of SO2 would require elevated temperatures that cannot be tolerated by the strength fibres in the pipe. While the use of particle-based slurries rather than SO2 for climate engineering can reduce the pipe size significantly, the pumping pressures are close to the maximum bursting pressure of the pipe. PMID:26543573

Isothermal pumping analysis for high-altitude tethered balloons.

PubMed

Kuo, Kirsty A; Hunt, Hugh E M

2015-06-01

High-altitude tethered balloons have potential applications in communications, surveillance, meteorological observations and climate engineering. To maintain balloon buoyancy, power fuel cells and perturb atmospheric conditions, fluids could be pumped from ground level to altitude using the tether as a hose. This paper examines the pumping requirements of such a delivery system. Cases considered include delivery of hydrogen, sulfur dioxide (SO2) and powders as fluid-based slurries. Isothermal analysis is used to determine the variation of pressures and velocities along the pipe length. Results show that transport of small quantities of hydrogen to power fuel cells and maintain balloon buoyancy can be achieved at pressures and temperatures that are tolerable in terms of both the pipe strength and the current state of pumping technologies. To avoid solidification, transport of SO2 would require elevated temperatures that cannot be tolerated by the strength fibres in the pipe. While the use of particle-based slurries rather than SO2 for climate engineering can reduce the pipe size significantly, the pumping pressures are close to the maximum bursting pressure of the pipe.

Heat and mass transfer in MHD free convection from a moving permeable vertical surface by a perturbation technique

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Abdelkhalek, M. M.

2009-05-01

Numerical results are presented for heat and mass transfer effect on hydromagnetic flow of a moving permeable vertical surface. An analysis is performed to study the momentum, heat and mass transfer characteristics of MHD natural convection flow over a moving permeable surface. The surface is maintained at linear temperature and concentration variations. The non-linear coupled boundary layer equations were transformed and the resulting ordinary differential equations were solved by perturbation technique [Aziz A, Na TY. Perturbation methods in heat transfer. Berlin: Springer-Verlag; 1984. p. 1-184; Kennet Cramer R, Shih-I Pai. Magneto fluid dynamics for engineers and applied physicists 1973;166-7]. The solution is found to be dependent on several governing parameter, including the magnetic field strength parameter, Prandtl number, Schmidt number, buoyancy ratio and suction/blowing parameter, a parametric study of all the governing parameters is carried out and representative results are illustrated to reveal a typical tendency of the solutions. Numerical results for the dimensionless velocity profiles, the temperature profiles, the concentration profiles, the local friction coefficient and the local Nusselt number are presented for various combinations of parameters.

Stratification of a closed region containing two buoyancy sources

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Thompson, Andrew; Linden, Paul

2005-11-01

Many closed systems such as lakes, ocean basins, rooms etc. have inputs of buoyancy at different levels. We address the question of how the resulting stratification depends on the location of these sources. For example a lake is heated and cooled at the surface, while for a room cool air may be applied at the ceiling but the heat source may be a person standing on the floor. We present an experimental study of convection in a finite box in which we systematically vary the vertical location of two well-separated, constant buoyancy sources. We specifically consider the case of a dense source and a light source so that there is no net buoyancy flux into the tank. We study the development of the large-time stratification in the tank, which falls between one of two limits. When the location of the dense source is significantly higher than the light source, the fluid is well mixed and the system remains largely unstratified. When the location of the light source is significantly higher than the dense source, a two- layer stratification develops. We find that the circulation pattern is dominated by counter-flowing shear layers (Wong, Griffiths & Hughes, 2001), whose number and strength are strongly influenced by the buoyancy source locations. The shear layers are the primary means of communication between the plumes and thus play a large role in the resulting stratification. We support our findings with a simple numerical model.

Investigating Students' Ideas About Buoyancy and the Influence of Haptic Feedback

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Minogue, James; Borland, David

2016-04-01

While haptics (simulated touch) represents a potential breakthrough technology for science teaching and learning, there is relatively little research into its differential impact in the context of teaching and learning. This paper describes the testing of a haptically enhanced simulation (HES) for learning about buoyancy. Despite a lifetime of everyday experiences, a scientifically sound explanation of buoyancy remains difficult to construct for many. It requires the integration of domain-specific knowledge regarding density, fluid, force, gravity, mass, weight, and buoyancy. Prior studies suggest that novices often focus on only one dimension of the sinking and floating phenomenon. Our HES was designed to promote the integration of the subconcepts of density and buoyant forces and stresses the relationship between the object itself and the surrounding fluid. The study employed a randomized pretest-posttest control group research design and a suite of measures including an open-ended prompt and objective content questions to provide insights into the influence of haptic feedback on undergraduate students' thinking about buoyancy. A convenience sample (n = 40) was drawn from a university's population of undergraduate elementary education majors. Two groups were formed from haptic feedback (n = 22) and no haptic feedback (n = 18). Through content analysis, discernible differences were seen in the posttest explanations sinking and floating across treatment groups. Learners that experienced the haptic feedback made more frequent use of "haptically grounded" terms (e.g., mass, gravity, buoyant force, pushing), leading us to begin to build a local theory of language-mediated haptic cognition.

Survival suit volume reduction associated with immersion: implications for buoyancy estimation in offshore workers of different size.

PubMed

Stewart, Arthur; Ledingham, Robert; Furnace, Graham; Williams, Hector; Coleshaw, Susan

2017-06-01

It is currently unknown how body size affects buoyancy in submerged helicopter escape. Eight healthy males aged 39.6 ± 12.6 year (mean ± SD) with BMI 22.0-40.0 kg m -2 wearing a standard survival ('dry') suit undertook a normal venting manoeuvre and underwent 3D scanning to assess body volume (wearing the suit) before and after immersion in a swimming pool. Immersion-induced volume loss averaged 14.4 ± 5.4 l, decreased with increasing dry density (mass volume -1 ) and theoretical buoyant force in 588 UK offshore workers was found to be 264 ± 46 and 232 ± 60 N using linear and power functions, respectively. Both approaches revealed heavier workers to have greater buoyant force. While a larger sample may yield a more accurate buoyancy prediction, this study shows heavier workers are likely to have greater buoyancy. Without free-swimming capability to overcome such buoyancy, some individuals may possibly exceed the safe limit to enable escape from a submerged helicopter. Practitioner Summary: Air expulsion reduced total body volume of survival-suited volunteers following immersion by an amount inversely proportional to body size. When applied to 588 offshore workers, the predicted air loss suggested buoyant force to be greatest in the heaviest individuals, which may impede their ability to exit a submerged helicopter.

An analytic model for buoyancy resonances in protoplanetary disks

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Lubow, Stephen H.; Zhu, Zhaohuan, E-mail: lubow@stsci.edu, E-mail: zhzhu@astro.princeton.edu

2014-04-10

Zhu et al. found in three-dimensional shearing box simulations a new form of planet-disk interaction that they attributed to a vertical buoyancy resonance in the disk. We describe an analytic linear model for this interaction. We adopt a simplified model involving azimuthal forcing that produces the resonance and permits an analytic description of its structure. We derive an analytic expression for the buoyancy torque and show that the vertical torque distribution agrees well with the results of the Athena simulations and a Fourier method for linear numerical calculations carried out with the same forcing. The buoyancy resonance differs from themore » classic Lindblad and corotation resonances in that the resonance lies along tilted planes. Its width depends on damping effects and is independent of the gas sound speed. The resonance does not excite propagating waves. At a given large azimuthal wavenumber k{sub y} > h {sup –1} (for disk thickness h), the buoyancy resonance exerts a torque over a region that lies radially closer to the corotation radius than the Lindblad resonance. Because the torque is localized to the region of excitation, it is potentially subject to the effects of nonlinear saturation. In addition, the torque can be reduced by the effects of radiative heat transfer between the resonant region and its surroundings. For each azimuthal wavenumber, the resonance establishes a large scale density wave pattern in a plane within the disk.« less

Influence of the weighing bar position in vessel on measurement of cement’s particle size distribution by using the buoyancy weighing-bar method

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tambun, R.; Sihombing, R. O.; Simanjuntak, A.; Hanum, F.

2018-02-01

The buoyancy weighing-bar method is a new simple and cost-effective method to determine the particle size distribution both settling and floating particle. In this method, the density change in a suspension due to particle migration is measured by weighing buoyancy against a weighing-bar hung in the suspension, and then the particle size distribution is calculated using the length of the bar and the time-course change in the mass of the bar. The apparatus of this method consists of a weighing-bar and an analytical balance with a hook for under-floor weighing. The weighing bar is used to detect the density change in suspension. In this study we investigate the influences of position of weighing bar in vessel on settling particle size distribution measurements of cement by using the buoyancy weighing-bar method. The vessel used in this experiment is graduated cylinder with the diameter of 65 mm and the position of weighing bar is in center and off center of vessel. The diameter of weighing bar in this experiment is 10 mm, and the kerosene is used as a dispersion liquids. The results obtained show that the positions of weighing bar in vessel have no significant effect on determination the cement’s particle size distribution by using buoyancy weighing-bar method, and the results obtained are comparable to those measured by using settling balance method.

The contribution of the swimbladder to buoyancy in the adult zebrafish (Danio rerio): a morphometric analysis.

PubMed

Robertson, George N; Lindsey, Benjamin W; Dumbarton, Tristan C; Croll, Roger P; Smith, Frank M

2008-06-01

Many teleost fishes use a swimbladder, a gas-filled organ in the coelomic cavity, to reduce body density toward neutral buoyancy, thus minimizing the locomotory cost of maintaining a constant depth in the water column. However, for most swimbladder-bearing teleosts, the contribution of this organ to the attainment of neutral buoyancy has not been quantified. Here, we examined the quantitative contribution of the swimbladder to buoyancy and three-dimensional stability in a small cyprinid, the zebrafish (Danio rerio). In aquaria during daylight hours, adult animals were observed at mean depths from 10.1 +/- 6.0 to 14.2 +/- 5.6 cm below the surface. Fish mass and whole-body volume were linearly correlated (r(2) = 0.96) over a wide range of body size (0.16-0.73 g); mean whole-body density was 1.01 +/- 0.09 g cm(-3). Stereological estimations of swimbladder volume from linear dimensions of lateral X-ray images and direct measurements of gas volumes recovered by puncture from the same swimbladders showed that results from these two methods were highly correlated (r(2) = 0.85). The geometric regularity of the swimbladder thus permitted its volume to be accurately estimated from a single lateral image. Mean body density in the absence of the swimbladder was 1.05 +/- 0.04 g cm(-3). The swimbladder occupied 5.1 +/- 1.4% of total body volume, thus reducing whole-body density significantly. The location of the centers of mass and buoyancy along rostro-caudal and dorso-ventral axes overlapped near the ductus communicans, a constriction between the anterior and posterior swimbladder chambers. Our work demonstrates that the swimbladder of the adult zebrafish contributes significantly to buoyancy and attitude stability. Furthermore, we describe and verify a stereological method for estimating swimbladder volume that will aid future studies of the functions of this organ. 2008 Wiley-Liss, Inc

Effects of g-Jitter on Diffusion in Binary Liquids

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Duval, Walter M. B.

1999-01-01

The microgravity environment offers the potential to measure the binary diffusion coefficients in liquids without the masking effects introduced by buoyancy-induced flows due to Earth s gravity. However, the background g-jitter (vibrations from the shuttle, onboard machinery, and crew) normally encountered in many shuttle experiments may alter the benefits of the microgravity environment and introduce vibrations that could offset its intrinsic advantages. An experiment during STS-85 (August 1997) used the Microgravity Vibration Isolation Mount (MIM) to isolate and introduce controlled vibrations to two miscible liquids inside a cavity to study the effects of g-jitter on liquid diffusion. Diffusion in a nonhomogeneous liquid system is caused by a nonequilibrium condition that results in the transport of mass (dispersion of the different kinds of liquid molecules) to approach equilibrium. The dynamic state of the system tends toward equilibrium such that the system becomes homogeneous. An everyday example is the mixing of cream and coffee (a nonhomogeneous system) via stirring. The cream diffuses into the coffee, thus forming a homogeneous system. At equilibrium the system is said to be mixed. However, during stirring, simple observations show complex flow field dynamics-stretching and folding of material interfaces, thinning of striation thickness, self-similar patterns, and so on. This example illustrates that, even though mixing occurs via mass diffusion, stirring to enhance transport plays a major role. Stirring can be induced either by mechanical means (spoon or plastic stirrer) or via buoyancy-induced forces caused by Earth s gravity. Accurate measurements of binary diffusion coefficients are often inhibited by buoyancy-induced flows. The microgravity environment minimizes the effect of buoyancy-induced flows and allows the true diffusion limit to be achieved. One goal of this experiment was to show that the microgravity environment suppresses buoyancy-induced convection, thereby mass diffusion becomes the dominant mechanism for transport. Since g-jitter transmitted by the shuttle to the experiment can potentially excite buoyancy-induced flows, we also studied the effects of controlled vibrations on the system.

Shallow velocity structure across the Mariana arc

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tait, S.; Kaminski, E. C.; Carazzo, G.; Limare, A.

2016-12-01

Atmospheric injection of volcanic ash during explosive eruptions is controlled by the dynamics of a volcanic column and associated umbrella cloud, which are subject to a wind field, and are connected by a turbulent fountain which initiates horizontal spreading at the neutral buoyancy level. We present a new theoretical and experimental study of an axisymmetric turbulent umbrella cloud intruding horizontally at its neutral buoyancy level into a static environment linearly stratified in density. The intrusion is fed by a constant horizontal volume flux (Q0) at a finite radius (R0), where it has a constant thickness (2H0). The characteristics of the fountain (R0, H0, Q0) derive from a vertical forced plume (source momentum and buoyancy fluxes Mi , Fi) and environmental stratification N. Buoyancy drives horizontal flow but, despite high Reynolds number, impedes entrainment of ambient fluid into the umbrella cloud. Turbulent stresses are nevertheless crucial in the momentum balance. Our theory highlights the vertical profiles of density and velocity within the current of which we present experimental measurements. Initially, current buoyancy is opposed by the inertia of the ambient fluid, and current radius (RN(t)) grows linearly in time. Subsequently, turbulent drag opposes buoyancy, and the current breaks down into two parts: i) between the source and a transition radius (R0T(t)), a steady region where current thickness (2H) and mean velocity (U) are time-independent and decreasing functions of r ; ii), a contiguous unsteady « frontal » region, between the transition radius and the front (RTN), in which the current thickens. The theory predicts current shape and an asymptotic spreading behaviour (RN t^5/9) which agree well with experimental data. Our analysis of satellite observations of several sustained plinian events including the Pinatubo 1991 climactic eruption shows that both the initial and asymptotic spreading regimes predicted by the model are present.

The Dynamics of Volcanic Umbrella Clouds

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tait, S.; Kaminski, E. C.; Carazzo, G.; Limare, A.

2017-12-01

Atmospheric injection of volcanic ash during explosive eruptions is controlled by the dynamics of a volcanic column and associated umbrella cloud, which are subject to a wind field, and are connected by a turbulent fountain which initiates horizontal spreading at the neutral buoyancy level. We present a new theoretical and experimental study of an axisymmetric turbulent umbrella cloud intruding horizontally at its neutral buoyancy level into a static environment linearly stratified in density. The intrusion is fed by a constant horizontal volume flux (Q0) at a finite radius (R0), where it has a constant thickness (2H0). The characteristics of the fountain (R0, H0, Q0) derive from a vertical forced plume (source momentum and buoyancy fluxes Mi , Fi) and environmental stratification N. Buoyancy drives horizontal flow but, despite high Reynolds number, impedes entrainment of ambient fluid into the umbrella cloud. Turbulent stresses are nevertheless crucial in the momentum balance. Our theory highlights the vertical profiles of density and velocity within the current of which we present experimental measurements. Initially, current buoyancy is opposed by the inertia of the ambient fluid, and current radius (RN(t)) grows linearly in time. Subsequently, turbulent drag opposes buoyancy, and the current breaks down into two parts: i) between the source and a transition radius (R0T(t)), a steady region where current thickness (2H) and mean velocity (U) are time-independent and decreasing functions of r ; ii), a contiguous unsteady « frontal » region, between the transition radius and the front (RTN), in which the current thickens. The theory predicts current shape and an asymptotic spreading behaviour (RN t^5/9) which agree well with experimental data. Our analysis of satellite observations of several sustained plinian events including the Pinatubo 1991 climactic eruption shows that both the initial and asymptotic spreading regimes predicted by the model are present.

Preparation and optimization of glyceryl behenate-based highly porous pellets containing cilostazol.

PubMed

Hwang, Kyu-Mok; Byun, Woojin; Cho, Cheol-Hee; Park, Eun-Seok

2018-06-01

The aim of this study was to prepare a highly porous multiparticulate dosage form containing cilostazol for gastroretentive drug delivery. The floating pellets were prepared with glyceryl behenate as a matrix former and camphor as a sublimating agent by extrusion/spheronization and sublimation under vacuum. Granules prepared with sublimation at 60 °C displayed a slower dissolution rate and smoother surface morphology than those prepared at lower temperatures. This was unexpected as the reported melting point of glyceryl behenate is higher than 69 °C. The DSC study revealed that melting began at a lower temperature owing to the multicomponent property of glyceryl behenate, which led to a sintering effect. The prepared pellets were spherical with unimodal size distribution. They also had porous structures with increased porosity, which led to immediate buoyancy. As cilostazol is a hydrophobic drug that has an erosion-based release mechanism, drug release profile was highly correlated with the percentage of disintegrated pellets. Various excipients were added to the glyceryl behenate-based formulation to increase the floating duration. When hydroxyethyl cellulose was added to the glyceryl behenate-based pellets, acceptable dissolution rate and buoyancy were acquired. This system could potentially be used for gastroretentive delivery of various hydrophobic drugs, which was generally considered difficult.

The Principles of Buoyancy in Marine Fish Eggs and Their Vertical Distributions across the World Oceans

PubMed Central

Sundby, Svein; Kristiansen, Trond

2015-01-01

Buoyancy acting on plankton, i.e. the difference in specific gravity between plankton and the ambient water, is a function of salinity and temperature. From specific gravity measurements of marine fish eggs salinity appears to be the only determinant of the buoyancy indicating that the thermal expansions of the fish egg and the ambient seawater are equal. We analyze the mechanisms behind thermal expansion in fish eggs in order to determine to what extent it can be justified to neglect the effects of temperature on buoyancy. Our results confirm the earlier assumptions that salinity is the basic determinant on buoyancy in marine fish eggs that, in turn, influence the vertical distributions and, consequently, the dispersal of fish eggs from the spawning areas. Fish populations have adapted accordingly by producing egg specific gravities that tune the egg buoyancy to create specific vertical distributions for each local population. A wide variety of buoyancy adaptations are found among fish populations. The ambient physical conditions at the spawning sites form a basic constraint for adaptation. In coastal regions where salinity increases with depth, and where the major fraction of the fish stocks spawns, pelagic and mesopelagic egg distributions dominate. However, in the larger part of worlds’ oceans salinity decreases with depth resulting in different egg distributions. Here, the principles of vertical distributions of fish eggs in the world oceans are presented in an overarching framework presenting the basic differences between regions, mainly coastal, where salinity increases with depth and the major part of the world oceans where salinity decreases with depth. We show that under these latter conditions, steady-state vertical distribution of mesopelagic fish eggs cannot exist as it does in most coastal regions. In fact, a critical spawning depth must exist where spawning below this depth threshold results in eggs sinking out of the water column and become lost for recruitment to the population. An example of adaptation to such conditions is Cape hake spawning above the critical layer in the Northern Benguela upwelling ecosystem. The eggs rise slowly in the onshore subsurface current below the Ekman layer, hence being advected inshore where the hatched larvae concentrate with optimal feeding conditions. PMID:26465149

A study of overflow simulations using MPAS-Ocean: Vertical grids, resolution, and viscosity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Reckinger, Shanon M.; Petersen, Mark R.; Reckinger, Scott J.

2015-12-01

MPAS-Ocean is used to simulate an idealized, density-driven overflow using the dynamics of overflow mixing and entrainment (DOME) setup. Numerical simulations are carried out using three of the vertical coordinate types available in MPAS-Ocean, including z-star with partial bottom cells, z-star with full cells, and sigma coordinates. The results are first benchmarked against other models, including the MITgcm's z-coordinate model and HIM's isopycnal coordinate model, which are used to set the base case used for this work. A full parameter study is presented that looks at how sensitive overflow simulations are to vertical grid type, resolution, and viscosity. Horizontal resolutions with 50 km grid cells are under-resolved and produce poor results, regardless of other parameter settings. Vertical grids ranging in thickness from 15 m to 120 m were tested. A horizontal resolution of 10 km and a vertical resolution of 60 m are sufficient to resolve the mesoscale dynamics of the DOME configuration, which mimics real-world overflow parameters. Mixing and final buoyancy are least sensitive to horizontal viscosity, but strongly sensitive to vertical viscosity. This suggests that vertical viscosity could be adjusted in overflow water formation regions to influence mixing and product water characteristics. Lastly, the study shows that sigma coordinates produce much less mixing than z-type coordinates, resulting in heavier plumes that go further down slope. Sigma coordinates are less sensitive to changes in resolution but as sensitive to vertical viscosity compared to z-coordinates.

Horizontal pre-asymptotic solute transport in a plane fracture with significant density contrasts.

PubMed

Bouquain, J; Meheust, Y; Davy, P

2011-03-01

We investigate the dispersion of a finite amount of solute after it has been injected into the laminar flow occurring in a horizontal smooth fracture of constant aperture. When solute buoyancy is negligible, the dispersion process eventually leads to the well-known asymptotic Taylor-Aris dispersion regime, in which the solute progresses along the fracture at the average fluid velocity, according to a one-dimensional longitudinal advection-dispersion process. This paper addresses more realistic configurations for which the solute-induced density contrasts within the fluid play an important role on solute transport, in particular at small and moderate times. Flow and transport are coupled, since the solute distribution impacts the variations in time of the advecting velocity field. Transport is simulated using (i) a mathematical description based on the Boussinesq approximation and (ii) a numerical scheme based on a finite element analysis. This enables complete characterization of the process, in particular at moderate times for which existing analytical models are not valid. At very short times as well as very long times, the overall downward advective solute mass flow is observed to scale as the square of the injected concentration. The asymptotic Taylor-Aris effective dispersion coefficient is reached eventually, but vertical density currents, which are significant at short and moderate times, are responsible for a systematic retardation of the asymptotic mean solute position with respect to the frame moving at the mean fluid velocity, as well as for a time shift in the establishment of the asymptotic dispersion regime. These delays are characterized as functions of the Péclet number and another non-dimensional number which we call advective Archimedes number, and which quantifies the ratio of buoyancy to viscous forces. Depending on the Péclet number, the asymptotic dispersion is measured to be either larger or smaller than what it would be in the absence of buoyancy effects. Breakthrough curves measured at distances larger than the typical distance needed to reach the asymptotic dispersion regime are impacted accordingly. These findings suggest that, under certain conditions, density/buoyancy effects may have to be taken into consideration when interpreting field measurement of solute transport in fractured media. They also allow an estimate of the conditions under which density effects related to fracture wall roughness are likely to be significant. Copyright © 2010 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Social Support, Academic Adversity and Academic Buoyancy: A Person-Centred Analysis and Implications for Academic Outcomes

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Collie, Rebecca J.; Martin, Andrew J.; Bottrell, Dorothy; Armstrong, Derrick; Ungar, Michael; Liebenberg, Linda

2017-01-01

The present study employed person-centred analyses that enabled identification of groups of students separated on the basis of their perceptions of social support (home and community), academic support, academic adversity and academic buoyancy. Among a sample of 249 young people, including many from high-needs communities, cluster analysis…

Around Marshall

NASA Image and Video Library

1997-04-18

Marshall's Neutral Buoyancy Simulator (NBS) is used to simulate the gravitational fields and buoyancy effects outer space has on astronauts and their ability to perform tasks in this environment. In this example, a diver performs a temporary fluid line repair task using a repair kit developed by Marshall engineers. The analysis will determine the value of this repair kit and its feasibility.

Using Surface Integrals for Checking Archimedes' Law of Buoyancy

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Lima, F. M. S.

2012-01-01

A mathematical derivation of the force exerted by an "inhomogeneous" (i.e. compressible) fluid on the surface of an "arbitrarily shaped" body immersed in it is not found in the literature, which may be attributed to our trust in Archimedes' law of buoyancy. However, this law, also known as Archimedes' principle (AP), does not yield the force…

Academic Buoyancy in Secondary School: Exploring Patterns of Convergence in English, Mathematics, Science, and Physical Education

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Malmberg, Lars-Erik; Hall, James; Martin, Andrew J.

2013-01-01

Past research into the ability of students to "bounce back" from everyday academic setback (academic buoyancy) has lacked sensitivity to the contexts in which children demonstrate this behavior. Here we aimed to contextualize past findings by reporting the results of an exploratory investigation that featured: (1) repeated measurement of…

Fluid flow inside and outside an evaporating sessile drop

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bouchenna, C.; Aitsaada, M.; Chikh, S.; Tadrist, L.

2017-11-01

The sessile drop evaporation is a phenomena which is extensively studied in the literature, but the governing effects are far from being well understood especially those involving movements taking place in both liquid and gas phases. The present work numerically studies the flow within and around an evaporating sessile drop. The flow is induced by the strong mass loss at contact line, the thermo-capillary effect and the buoyancy effect in the surrounding air. The results showed that buoyancy-induced flow in gas phase weakly influences thermo-capillarity-induced flow in the liquid phase. Buoyancy effect can strongly modify the temperature distribution at liquid-gas interface and thus the overall evaporation rate of the drop when the substrate is heated.

Acoustic Streaming and Heat and Mass Transfer Enhancement

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Trinh, E. H.; Gopinath, A.

1996-01-01

A second order effect associated with high intensity sound field, acoustic streaming has been historically investigated to gain a fundamental understanding of its controlling mechanisms and to apply it to practical aspects of heat and mass transfer enhancement. The objectives of this new research project are to utilize a unique experimental technique implementing ultrasonic standing waves in closed cavities to study the details of the generation of the steady-state convective streaming flows and of their interaction with the boundary of ultrasonically levitated near-spherical solid objects. The goals are to further extend the existing theoretical studies of streaming flows and sample interactions to higher streaming Reynolds number values, for larger sample size relative to the wavelength, and for a Prandtl and Nusselt numbers parameter range characteristic of both gaseous and liquid host media. Experimental studies will be conducted in support to the theoretical developments, and the crucial impact of microgravity will be to allow the neglect of natural thermal buoyancy. The direct application to heat and mass transfer in the absence of gravity will be emphasized in order to investigate a space-based experiment, but both existing and novel ground-based scientific and technological relevance will also be pursued.

Double Diffusive Magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) Mixed Convective Slip Flow along a Radiating Moving Vertical Flat Plate with Convective Boundary Condition

PubMed Central

Rashidi, Mohammad M.; Kavyani, Neda; Abelman, Shirley; Uddin, Mohammed J.; Freidoonimehr, Navid

2014-01-01

In this study combined heat and mass transfer by mixed convective flow along a moving vertical flat plate with hydrodynamic slip and thermal convective boundary condition is investigated. Using similarity variables, the governing nonlinear partial differential equations are converted into a system of coupled nonlinear ordinary differential equations. The transformed equations are then solved using a semi-numerical/analytical method called the differential transform method and results are compared with numerical results. Close agreement is found between the present method and the numerical method. Effects of the controlling parameters, including convective heat transfer, magnetic field, buoyancy ratio, hydrodynamic slip, mixed convective, Prandtl number and Schmidt number are investigated on the dimensionless velocity, temperature and concentration profiles. In addition effects of different parameters on the skin friction factor, , local Nusselt number, , and local Sherwood number are shown and explained through tables. PMID:25343360

Computational analysis of non-Newtonian boundary layer flow of nanofluid past a semi-infinite vertical plate with partial slip

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Amanulla, C. H.; Nagendra, N.; Suryanarayana Reddy, M.

2018-03-01

An analysis of this paper is examined, two-dimensional, laminar with heat and mass transfer of natural convective nanofluid flow past a semi-infinite vertical plate surface with velocity and thermal slip effects are studied theoretically. The coupled governing partial differential equations are transformed to ordinary differential equations by using non-similarity transformations. The obtained ordinary differential equations are solved numerically by a well-known method named as Keller Box Method (KBM). The influences of the emerging parameters i.e. Casson fluid parameter (β), Brownian motion parameter (Nb), thermophoresis parameter (Nt), Buoyancy ratio parameter (N), Lewis number (Le), Prandtl number (Pr), Velocity slip factor (Sf) and Thermal slip factor (ST) on velocity, temperature and nano-particle concentration distributions is illustrated graphically and interpreted at length. The major sources of nanoparticle migration in Nanofluids are Thermophoresis and Brownian motion. A suitable agreement with existing published literature is made and an excellent agreement is observed for the limiting case and also validation of solutions with a Nakamura tridiagonal method has been included. It is observed that nanoparticle concentrations on surface decreases with an increase in slip parameter. The study is relevant to enrobing processes for electric-conductive nano-materials, of potential use in aerospace and other industries.

Design of a Lighter Than Air Vehicle That Achieves Positive Buoyancy in Air Using a Vacuum

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-06-01

on 12 Dec 1951 [37]. In his patent, Fuller 46 described a geodesic sphere based on a 20 sided polyhedron called an icosahedron. The icosahedron...shown in Figure 14, is a polyhedron composed of 20 equilateral triangles in which each vertex lies on the surface of an imaginary sphere (shown as

Solar-power mountain concept

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Clarke, V. C., Jr.

1977-01-01

Solar collectors on mountainside collect thermal energy for mountaintop powerplant. Sloped arrangement reduces heat-transport problem of level ground-based collector field. Heated air rises without mechanical pumps and buoyancy force supplies pumping power without further cost. Precision tracking requirement of power towers eliminated by butted-together Winston-type concentrator troughs. Low-cost native rock is used for heat storage.

Observationally-based Metrics of Ocean Carbon and Biogeochemical Variables are Essential for Evaluating Earth System Model Projections

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Russell, J. L.; Sarmiento, J. L.

2017-12-01

The Southern Ocean is central to the climate's response to increasing levels of atmospheric greenhouse gases as it ventilates a large fraction of the global ocean volume. Global coupled climate models and earth system models, however, vary widely in their simulations of the Southern Ocean and its role in, and response to, the ongoing anthropogenic forcing. Due to its complex water-mass structure and dynamics, Southern Ocean carbon and heat uptake depend on a combination of winds, eddies, mixing, buoyancy fluxes and topography. Understanding how the ocean carries heat and carbon into its interior and how the observed wind changes are affecting this uptake is essential to accurately projecting transient climate sensitivity. Observationally-based metrics are critical for discerning processes and mechanisms, and for validating and comparing climate models. As the community shifts toward Earth system models with explicit carbon simulations, more direct observations of important biogeochemical parameters, like those obtained from the biogeochemically-sensored floats that are part of the Southern Ocean Carbon and Climate Observations and Modeling project, are essential. One goal of future observing systems should be to create observationally-based benchmarks that will lead to reducing uncertainties in climate projections, and especially uncertainties related to oceanic heat and carbon uptake.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Forte, A M; Quere, S; Moucha, R

Recent progress in seismic tomography provides the first complete 3-D images of the combined thermal and chemical anomalies that characterise the unique deep mantle structure below the African continent. With these latest tomography results we predict flow patterns under Africa that reveal a large-scale, active hot upwelling, or superplume, below the western margin of Africa under the Cape Verde Islands. The scale and dynamical intensity of this West African superplume (WASP) is comparable to that of the south African superplume (SASP) that has long been assumed to dominate the flow dynamics under Africa. On the basis of this new tomographymore » model, we find the dynamics of the SASP is strongly controlled by chemical contributions to deep mantle buoyancy that significantly compensate its thermal buoyancy. In contrast, the WASP appears to be entirely dominated by thermal buoyancy. New calculations of mantle convection incorporating these two superplumes reveal that the plate-driving forces due to the flow generated by the WASP is as strong as that due to the SASP. We find that the chemical buoyancy of the SASP exerts a strong stabilising control on the pattern and amplitude of shallow mantle flow in the asthenosphere below the southern half of the African plate. The asthenospheric flow predictions provide the first high resolution maps of focussed upwellings that lie below the major centres of Late Cenozoic volcanism, including the Kenya domes and Hoggar massif that lies above a remnant plume head in the upper mantle. Inferences of sublithospheric deformation from seismic anisotropy data are shown to be sensitive to the contributions of chemical buoyancy in the SASP.« less

Microbiological assay of the Marshall Space Flight Center neutral buoyancy simulator

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Beyerle, F. J.

1973-01-01

A neutral buoyancy simulator tank system is described in terms of microbiological and medical safety for astronauts. The system was designed to simulate a gravity-free state for evaluation of orbital operations in a microorganism-free environment. Methods for the identification and elimination of specific microorganisms are dealt with as measures for a pure system of space environment simulation.

Academic Buoyancy Mediates Academic Anxiety's Effects on Learning Strategies: An Investigation of English- and Chinese-Speaking Australian Students

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Collie, Rebecca J.; Ginns, Paul; Martin, Andrew J.; Papworth, Brad

2017-01-01

A primary goal our study was to explore whether relations between academic anxiety and students' use of a range of learning strategies (memorisation, elaboration, personal best [PB] goals and cooperation) were mediated by academic buoyancy. We were also interested in extending knowledge of anxiety and its role in students' learning strategy use.…

Use of an Arduino to Study Buoyancy Force

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Espindola, P. R.; Cena, C. R.; Alves, D. C. B.; Bozano, D. F.; Goncalves, A. M. B.

2018-01-01

The study of buoyancy becomes very interesting when we measure the apparent weight of the body and the liquid vessel weight. In this paper, we propose an experimental apparatus that measures both the forces mentioned before as a function of the depth that a cylinder is sunk into the water. It is done using two load cells connected to an Arduino.…

The Enabling and Protective Role of Academic Buoyancy in the Appraisal of Fear Appeals Used Prior to High Stakes Examinations

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Symes, Wendy; Putwain, David W.; Remedios, Richard

2015-01-01

Prior to high stakes examinations, teachers may engage in instructional practices to encourage their students to prepare well for their exams, including the use of "fear appeals". The current study examined whether academic buoyancy played a role in student appraisals of fear appeals as threatening or challenging. High school students…

Behavior of a wave-driven buoyant surface jet on a coral reef

USGS Publications Warehouse

Herdman, Liv; Hench, James L.; Fringer, Oliver; Monismith, Stephen G.

2017-01-01

A wave-driven surface buoyant jet exiting a coral reef was studied in order to quantify the amount of water re-entrained over the reef crest. Both moored observations and Lagrangian drifters were used to study the fate of the buoyant jet. To investigate in detail the effects of buoyancy and along-shore flow variations, we developed an idealized numerical model of the system. Consistent with previous work, the ratio of along-shore velocity to jet-velocity and the jet internal Froude number were found to be important determinants of the fate of the jet. In the absence of buoyancy, the entrainment of fluid at the reef crest, creates a significant amount of retention, keeping 60% of water in the reef system. However, when the jet is lighter than the ambient ocean-water, the net effect of buoyancy is to enhance the separation of the jet from shore, leading to a greater export of reef water. Matching observations, our modeling predicts that buoyancy limits retention to 30% of the jet flow for conditions existing on the Moorea reef. Overall, the combination of observations and modeling we present here shows that reef-ocean temperature gradients can play an important role in reef-ocean exchanges.

Drift Diving by Hooded Seals (Cystophora cristata) in the Northwest Atlantic Ocean

PubMed Central

Andersen, Julie M.; Stenson, Garry B.; Skern-Maurizen, Mette; Wiersma, Yolanda F.; Rosing-Asvid, Aqqalu; Hammill, Mike O.; Boehme, Lars

2014-01-01

Many pinniped species perform a specific dive type, referred to as a ‘drift dive’, where they drift passively through the water column. This dive type has been suggested to function as a resting/sleeping or food processing dive, and can be used as an indication of feeding success by calculating the daily change in vertical drift rates over time, which reflects the relative fluctuations in buoyancy of the animal as the proportion of lipids in the body change. Northwest Atlantic hooded seals perform drift dives at regular intervals throughout their annual migration across the Northwest Atlantic Ocean. We found that the daily change in drift rate varied with geographic location and the time of year and that this differed between sexes. Positive changes in buoyancy (reflecting increased lipid stores) were evident throughout their migration range and although overlapping somewhat, they were not statistically associated with high use areas as indicated by First Passage Time (FPT). Differences in the seasonal fluctuations of buoyancy between males and females suggest that they experience a difference in patterns of energy gain and loss during winter and spring, associated with breeding. The fluctuations in buoyancy around the moulting period were similar between sexes. PMID:25051251

Pressure as a limit to bloater (Coregonus hoyi) vertical migration

USGS Publications Warehouse

TeWinkel, Leslie M.; Fleischer, Guy W.

1998-01-01

Observations of bloater vertical migration showed a limit to the vertical depth changes that bloater experience. In this paper, we conducted an analysis of maximum differences in pressure encountered by bloater during vertical migration. Throughout the bottom depths studied, bloater experienced maximum reductions in swim bladder volume equal to approximately 50-60% of the volume in midwater. The analysis indicated that the limit in vertical depth change may be related to a maximum level of positive or negative buoyancy for which bloater can compensate using alternative mechanisms such as hydrodynamic lift. Bloater may be limited in the extent of migration by either their depth of neutral buoyancy or the distance above the depth of neutral buoyancy at which they can still maintain their position in the water column. Although a migration limit for the bloater population was evident, individual distances of migration varied at each site. These variations in migration distances may indicate differences in depths of neutral buoyancy within the population. However, in spite of these variations, the strong correlation between shallowest depths of migration and swim bladder volume reduction across depths provides evidence that hydrostatic pressure limits the extent of daily vertical movement in bloater.

Intensity and angle-of-arrival spectra of laser light propagating through axially homogeneous buoyancy-driven turbulence.

PubMed

Pawar, Shashikant S; Arakeri, Jaywant H

2016-08-01

Frequency spectra obtained from the measurements of light intensity and angle of arrival (AOA) of parallel laser light propagating through the axially homogeneous, axisymmetric buoyancy-driven turbulent flow at high Rayleigh numbers in a long (length-to-diameter ratio of about 10) vertical tube are reported. The flow is driven by an unstable density difference created across the tube ends using brine and fresh water. The highest Rayleigh number is about 8×10⁹. The aim of the present work is to find whether the conventional Obukhov-Corrsin scaling or Bolgiano-Obukhov (BO) scaling is obtained for the intensity and AOA spectra in the case of light propagation in a buoyancy-driven turbulent medium. Theoretical relations for the frequency spectra of log amplitude and AOA fluctuations developed for homogeneous isotropic turbulent media are modified for the buoyancy-driven flow in the present case to obtain the asymptotic scalings for the high and low frequency ranges. For low frequencies, the spectra of intensity and vertical AOA fluctuations obtained from measurements follow BO scaling, while scaling for the spectra of horizontal AOA fluctuations shows a small departure from BO scaling.

Behavior of a wave-driven buoyant surface jet on a coral reef

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Herdman, Liv M. M.; Hench, James L.; Fringer, Oliver; Monismith, Stephen G.

2017-05-01

A wave-driven surface-buoyant jet exiting a coral reef was studied in order to quantify the amount of water reentrained over the reef crest. Both moored observations and Lagrangian drifters were used to study the fate of the buoyant jet. To investigate in detail the effects of buoyancy and alongshore flow variations, we developed an idealized numerical model of the system. Consistent with previous work, the ratio of alongshore velocity to jet velocity and the jet internal Froude number were found to be important determinants of the fate of the jet. In the absence of buoyancy, the entrainment of fluid at the reef crest creates a significant amount of retention, keeping 60% of water in the reef system. However, when the jet is lighter than the ambient ocean water, the net effect of buoyancy is to enhance the separation of the jet from shore, leading to a greater export of reef water. Matching observations, our modeling predicts that buoyancy limits retention to 30% of the jet flow for conditions existing on the Moorea reef. Overall, the combination of observations and modeling we present here shows that reef-ocean temperature gradients can play an important role in reef-ocean exchanges.

Formation of Micro-Scale Gas Pockets From Underwater Wall Orifices

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Pereira, Francisco A.; Gharib, Morteza

2012-11-01

Our experiments examine the formation of micro-scale gas pockets from orifices on walls with hydrophilic and hydrophobic wetting properties. Bubble injection is operated in a liquid at rest at constant flow rate and in a quasi-static regime, and the mechanism of bubble growth is investigated through high speed recordings. The growth dynamics is studied in terms of orifice size, surface wetting properties and buoyancy sign. The bubble formation is characterized by an explosive growth, with a pressure wave that causes the bubble to take highly transient shapes in its very initial stages, before stabilizing as a sphere and growing at a relatively slow rate. In case of positive buoyancy, the bubble elongates with the formation of a neck before detaching from the wall. When buoyancy acts towards the wall, the bubble attaches to the wall and expands laterally with a moving contact line. In presence of hydrophobic surfaces, the bubble attaches immediately to the wall irrespective of buoyancy direction and takes a hemispherical shape, expanding radially along the surface. A force balance is outlined to explain the different figures. The work was performed by FAP while on leave from CNR-INSEAN, and is supported by the Office of Naval Research (ONR).

Numerical and analytical modelling of the MHD buoyancy-driven flow in a Bridgman crystal growth configuration

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Davoust, L.; Moreau, R.; Cowley, M. D.; Tanguy, P. A.; Bertrand, F.

1997-10-01

We present analytical and numerical models of magnetohydrodynamic(MHD) buoyancy-driven flow within the liquid pool of a horizontal Bridgman crystal growth furnace, under the influence of a uniform vertical magnetic field B0. A horizontal differentially heated cylinder, whose aspect ratio (radius to length) is small enough for a fully developed regime to be established in the central core, is considered. With Hartmann layers remaining electrically inactive, a modified Rayleigh number RaG, which is the ration of the ordinary Rayleigh number to the square of the Hartmann number, is found to control the MHD reorganisation of the flow. This modified Rayleigh number is a measure of the importance of thermal convection relative to diffusion if velocity is estimated from the balance between the torques of buoyancy and the Laplace force. When RaG is much smaller than unity (quasi-diffusive regime), an analytical modelling of the flow, based on a power series of RaG, demonstrates that this balance requires secondary vortices within vertical mid-planes of the cylinder, both within the core flow and near the end walls. A 3-D numerical calculation of the flow provides evidence of the transition from a convective MHD flow (when RaG is still of the order of unity) to the quasi-diffusive flow, analytically studied. Indeed, this transition takes the form of a rather complex 3-D MHD organisation of the flow which is due to the nonuniformity of the axial temperature gradient along the cylinder.

Implementing Nonlinear Buoyancy and Excitation Forces in the WEC-Sim Wave Energy Converter Modeling Tool: Preprint

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Lawson, M.; Yu, Y. H.; Nelessen, A.

2014-05-01

Wave energy converters (WECs) are commonly designed and analyzed using numerical models that combine multi-body dynamics with hydrodynamic models based on the Cummins Equation and linearized hydrodynamic coefficients. These modeling methods are attractive design tools because they are computationally inexpensive and do not require the use of high performance computing resources necessitated by high-fidelity methods, such as Navier Stokes computational fluid dynamics. Modeling hydrodynamics using linear coefficients assumes that the device undergoes small motions and that the wetted surface area of the devices is approximately constant. WEC devices, however, are typically designed to undergo large motions in order to maximizemore » power extraction, calling into question the validity of assuming that linear hydrodynamic models accurately capture the relevant fluid-structure interactions. In this paper, we study how calculating buoyancy and Froude-Krylov forces from the instantaneous position of a WEC device (referred to as instantaneous buoyancy and Froude-Krylov forces from herein) changes WEC simulation results compared to simulations that use linear hydrodynamic coefficients. First, we describe the WEC-Sim tool used to perform simulations and how the ability to model instantaneous forces was incorporated into WEC-Sim. We then use a simplified one-body WEC device to validate the model and to demonstrate how accounting for these instantaneously calculated forces affects the accuracy of simulation results, such as device motions, hydrodynamic forces, and power generation.« less

Can a simple dynamical system describe the interplay between drag and buoyancy in terrain-induced canopy flows?

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

De Roo, Frederik; Banerjee, Tirtha

Under non-neutral stratification and in the presence of topography the dynamics of turbulent flow within a canopy is not yet completely understood. This has, among others, serious implications for the measurement of surface – atmosphere exchange by means of eddy-covariance: for example the measurement of carbon dioxide fluxes are strongly influenced if drainage flows occur during night, when the flow within the canopy decouples from the flow aloft. An improved physical understanding of the behavior of scalars under canopy turbulence in complex terrain is urgently needed. In the present work, we investigate the dynamics of turbulent flow within sloped canopies,more » focusing on the slope wind and potential temperature. We concentrate on the presence of oscillatory behavior in the flow variables in terms of switching of flow regimes by conducting linear stability analysis. We revisit and correct the simplified theory that exists in the literature, which is based on the interplay between the drag force and the buoyancy. We find that the simplified description of this dynamical system cannot exhibit the observed richness of the dynamics. To augment the simplified dynamical system’s analysis, we make use of large-eddy simulation of a three-dimensional hill covered by a homogeneous forest and analyze the phase synchronization behavior of the buoyancy and drag forces in the momentum budget to explore the turbulent dynamics in more detail.« less

Can a simple dynamical system describe the interplay between drag and buoyancy in terrain-induced canopy flows?

DOE PAGES

De Roo, Frederik; Banerjee, Tirtha

2018-02-23

Under non-neutral stratification and in the presence of topography the dynamics of turbulent flow within a canopy is not yet completely understood. This has, among others, serious implications for the measurement of surface – atmosphere exchange by means of eddy-covariance: for example the measurement of carbon dioxide fluxes are strongly influenced if drainage flows occur during night, when the flow within the canopy decouples from the flow aloft. An improved physical understanding of the behavior of scalars under canopy turbulence in complex terrain is urgently needed. In the present work, we investigate the dynamics of turbulent flow within sloped canopies,more » focusing on the slope wind and potential temperature. We concentrate on the presence of oscillatory behavior in the flow variables in terms of switching of flow regimes by conducting linear stability analysis. We revisit and correct the simplified theory that exists in the literature, which is based on the interplay between the drag force and the buoyancy. We find that the simplified description of this dynamical system cannot exhibit the observed richness of the dynamics. To augment the simplified dynamical system’s analysis, we make use of large-eddy simulation of a three-dimensional hill covered by a homogeneous forest and analyze the phase synchronization behavior of the buoyancy and drag forces in the momentum budget to explore the turbulent dynamics in more detail.« less

Fluid flow in solidifying monotectic alloys

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ecker, A.; Frazier, D. O.; Alexander, J. Iwan D.

1989-01-01

Use of a two-wavelength holographic technique results in a simultaneous determination of temperature and composition profiles during directional solidification in a system with a miscibility gap. The relationships among fluid flow, phase separation, and mass transport during the solidification of the monotectic alloy are discussed. The primary sources of fluid motion in this system are buoyancy and thermocapillary forces. These forces act together when phase separation results in the formation of droplets (this occurs at the solid-liquid interface and in the bulk melt). In the absence of phase separation, buoyancy results from density gradients related to temperature and compositional gradients in the single-phase bulk melt. The effects of buoyancy are especially evident in association with water- or ethanol-rich volumes created at the solid-liquid growth interface.

Is evaporative colling important for shallow clouds?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gentine, P.; Park, S. B.; Davini, P.; D'Andrea, F.

2017-12-01

We here investigate and test using large-eddy simulations the hypothesis that evaporative cooling might not be crucial for shallow clouds. Results from various Shallow convection and stratocumulus LES experiments show that the influence of evaporative cooling is secondary compared to turbulent mixing, which dominates the buoyancy reversal. In shallow cumulus subising shells are not due to evaporative cooling but rather reflect a vortical structure, with a postive buoyancy anomaly in the core due to condensation. Disabling evaporative cooling has negligible impact on this vortical structure and on buoyancy reversal. Similarly in non-precipitating stratocumuli evaporative cooling is negeligible copmared to other factors, especially turbulent mixing and pressure effects. These results emphasize that it may not be critical to icnlude evaporative cooling in parameterizations of shallow clouds and that it does not alter entrainment.

Buoyancy Effects on Flow Transition in Hydrogen Gas Jet Diffusion Flames

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Albers, Burt W.; Agrawal, Ajay K.; Griffin, DeVon (Technical Monitor)

2000-01-01

Experiments were performed in earth-gravity to determine how buoyancy affected transition from laminar to turbulent flow in hydrogen gas jet diffusion flames. The jet exit Froude number characterizing buoyancy in the flame was varied from 1.65 x 10(exp 5) to 1.14 x 10(exp 8) by varying the operating pressure and/or burner inside diameter. Laminar fuel jet was discharged vertically into ambient air flowing through a combustion chamber. Flame characteristics were observed using rainbow schlieren deflectometry, a line-of-site optical diagnostic technique. Results show that the breakpoint length for a given jet exit Reynolds number increased with increasing Froude number. Data suggest that buoyant transitional flames might become laminar in the absence of gravity. The schlieren technique was shown as effective in quantifying the flame characteristics.

Practicing for space underwater: inventing neutral buoyancy training, 1963-1968.

PubMed

Neufeld, Michael J; Charles, John B

2015-01-01

Neutral buoyancy's value was far from obvious when human spaceflight began in 1961. Starting in 1964, Environmental Research Associates, a tiny company in the suburbs of Baltimore, developed the key innovations in an obscure research project funded by NASA's Langley Research Center. The new Houston center dismissed it until a mid-1966 EVA crisis, after which it rapidly took over. In parallel, NASA Marshall Space Flight Center developed many of the same techniques, as did many large aerospace corporations, yet the long-run technological impact of corporate activity was near zero. Because ERA and Marshall's pioneering activities led to the two long-running NASA training centers at Houston and Huntsville, those two organizations deserve primary credit for the construction of the neutral buoyancy technological system. Published by Elsevier Ltd.

High-Speed Rainbow Schlieren Visualization of an Oscillating Helium Jet Undergoing Gravitational Change

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Leptuch, Peter A.; Agrawal, Ajay K.

2005-01-01

Rainbow schlieren deflectometry combined with high-speed digital imaging was used to study buoyancy effects on flow structure of a helium jet discharged vertically into air. The experimental data were taken using the 2.2-sec drop tower facility at the NASA John H. Glenn Research Center in Cleveland, Ohio. The test conditions pertained to jet Reynolds number of 490 and jet Richardson number of 0.11, for which buoyancy is often considered unimportant. Experimental results show global oscillations at a frequency of 27 Hz in Earth gravity. In microgravity, the jet oscillations vanished and the jet width increased. Results provide a direct physical evidence of the importance of buoyancy on the flow structure of low-density gas jets at a Richardson number considered too small to account for gravity.

Internal and forced eddy variability in the Labrador Sea

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bracco, A.; Luo, H.; Zhong, Y.; Lilly, J.

2009-04-01

Water mass transformation in the Labrador Sea, widely believed to be one of the key regions in the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC), now appears to be strongly impacted by vortex dynamics of the unstable boundary current. Large interannual variations in both eddy shedding and buoyancy transport from the boundary current have been observed but not explained, and are apparently sensitive to the state of the inflowing current. Heat and salinity fluxes associated with the eddies drive ventilation changes not accounted for by changes in local surface forcing, particularly during occasional years of extreme eddy activity, and constitute a predominant source of "internal" oceanic variability. The nature of this variable eddy-driven restratification is one of the outstanding questions along the northern transformation pathway. Here we investigate the eddy generation mechanism and the associated buoyancy fluxes by combining realistic and idealized numerical modeling, data analysis, and theory. Theory, supported by idealized experiments, provides criteria to test hypotheses as to the vortex formation process (by baroclinic instability linked to the bottom topography). Ensembles of numerical experiments with a high-resolution regional model (ROMS) allow for quantifying the sensitivity of eddy generation and property transport to variations in local and external forcing parameters. For the first time, we reproduce with a numerical simulation the observed interannual variability in the eddy kinetic energy in the convective region of the Labrador Basin and along the West Greenland Current.

Venusian Applications of 3D Convection Modeling

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Bonaccorso, Timary Annie

2011-01-01

This study models mantle convection on Venus using the 'cubed sphere' code OEDIPUS, which models one-sixth of the planet in spherical geometry. We are attempting to balance internal heating, bottom mantle viscosity, and temperature difference across Venus' mantle, in order to create a realistic model that matches with current planetary observations. We also have begun to run both lower and upper mantle simulations to determine whether layered (as opposed to whole-mantle) convection might produce more efficient heat transfer, as well as to model coronae formation in the upper mantle. Upper mantle simulations are completed using OEDIPUS' Cartesian counterpart, JOCASTA. This summer's central question has been how to define a mantle plume. Traditionally, we have defined a hot plume the region with temperature at or above 40% of the difference between the maximum and horizontally averaged temperature, and a cold plume as the region with 40% of the difference between the minimum and average temperature. For less viscous cases (1020 Pa?s), the plumes generated by that definition lacked vigor, displaying buoyancies 1/100th of those found in previous, higher viscosity simulations (1021 Pa?s). As the mantle plumes with large buoyancy flux are most likely to produce topographic uplift and volcanism, the low viscosity cases' plumes may not produce observable deformation. In an effort to eliminate the smallest plumes, we experimented with different lower bound parameters and temperature percentages.

Floating modular drug delivery systems with buoyancy independent of release mechanisms to sustain amoxicillin and clarithromycin intra-gastric concentrations.

PubMed

Rossi, Alessandra; Conti, Chiara; Colombo, Gaia; Castrati, Luca; Scarpignato, Carmelo; Barata, Pedro; Sandri, Giuseppina; Caramella, Carla; Bettini, Ruggero; Buttini, Francesca; Colombo, Paolo

2016-01-01

Release modules of amoxicillin and clarithromycin combined in a single dosage form designed to float in the gastric content and to sustain the intra-gastric concentrations of these two antibiotics used for the eradication of Helicobacter pylori have been studied. The modules having a disc shape with curved bases were formulated as hydrophilic matrices. Two modules of clarithromycin were assembled by sticking the concave base of one module to the concave base of the other, creating an internal void chamber. The final dosage form was a floating assembly of three modules of clarithromycin and two of amoxicillin in which the drug release mechanism did not interfere with the floatation mechanism. The assembled system showed immediate in vitro floatation at pH 1.2, lasting 5 h. The in vitro antibiotics release profiles from individual modules and assembled systems exhibited linear release rate during buoyancy for at least 8 h. The predicted antibiotic concentrations in the stomach maintained for long time levels significantly higher than the respective minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC). In addition, an in vivo absorption study performed on beagle dogs confirmed the slow release of clarithromycin and amoxicillin from the assembled system during the assembly's permanence in the stomach for at least 4 h.

Lithospheric buoyancy and continental intraplate stresses

USGS Publications Warehouse

Zoback, M.L.; Mooney, W.D.

2003-01-01

Lithospheric buoyancy, the product of lithospheric density and thickness, is an important physical property that influences both the long-term stability of continents and their state of stress. We have determined lithospheric buoyancy by applying the simple isostatic model of Lachenbruch and Morgan (1990). We determine the crustal portion of lithospheric buoyancy using the USGS global database of more than 1700 crustal structure determinations (Mooney et al., 2002), which demonstrates that a simple relationship between crustal thickness and surface elevation does not exist. In fact, major regions of the crust at or near sea level (0-200 m elevation) have crustal thicknesses that vary between 25 and 55 km. Predicted elevations due to the crustal component of buoyancy in the model exceed observed elevations in nearly all cases (97% of the data), consistent with the existence of a cool lithospheric mantle lid that is denser than the asthenosphere on which it floats. The difference between the observed and predicted crustal elevation is assumed to be equal to the decrease in elevation produced by the negative buoyancy of the mantle lid. Mantle lid thickness was first estimated from the mantle buoyancy and a mean lid density computed using a basal crust temperature determined from extrapolation of surface heat flow, assuming a linear thermal gradient in the mantle lid. The resulting values of total lithosphere thickness are in good agreement with thicknesses estimated from seismic data, except beneath cratonic regions where they are only 40-60% of the typical estimates (200-350 km) derived from seismic data. This inconsistency is compatible with petrologic data and tomography and geoid analyses that have suggested that cratonic mantle lids are ??? 1% less dense than mantle lids elsewhere. By lowering the thermally determined mean mantle lid density in cratons by 1%, our model reproduces the observed 200-350+ km cratonic lithospheric thickness. We then computed gravitational potential energy by taking a vertical integral over the computed lithosphere density. Our computed values suggest that the thick roots beneath cratons lead to strong negative potential energy differences relative to surrounding regions, and hence exert compressive stresses superimposed on the intraplate stresses derived from plate boundary forces. Forces related to this lithosphere structure thus may explain the dominance of reverse-faulting earthquakes in cratons. Areas of high elevation and a thin mantle lid (e.g., western U.S. Basin and Range, East African rift, and Baikal rift) are predicted to be in extension, consistent with the observed stress regime in these areas.

Characteristics of Turbulent Airflow Deduced from Rapid Surface Thermal Fluctuations: An Infrared Surface Anemometer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Aminzadeh, Milad; Breitenstein, Daniel; Or, Dani

2017-12-01

The intermittent nature of turbulent airflow interacting with the surface is readily observable in fluctuations of the surface temperature resulting from the thermal imprints of eddies sweeping the surface. Rapid infrared thermography has recently been used to quantify characteristics of the near-surface turbulent airflow interacting with the evaporating surfaces. We aim to extend this technique by using single-point rapid infrared measurements to quantify properties of a turbulent flow, including surface exchange processes, with a view towards the development of an infrared surface anemometer. The parameters for the surface-eddy renewal (α and β ) are inferred from infrared measurements of a single-point on the surface of a heat plate placed in a wind tunnel with prescribed wind speeds and constant mean temperatures of the surface. Thermally-deduced parameters are in agreement with values obtained from standard three-dimensional ultrasonic anemometer measurements close to the plate surface (e.g., α = 3 and β = 1/26 (ms)^{-1} for the infrared, and α = 3 and β = 1/19 (ms)^{-1} for the sonic-anemometer measurements). The infrared-based turbulence parameters provide new insights into the role of surface temperature and buoyancy on the inherent characteristics of interacting eddies. The link between the eddy-spectrum shape parameter α and the infrared window size representing the infrared field of view is investigated. The results resemble the effect of the sampling height above the ground in sonic anemometer measurements, which enables the detection of larger eddies with higher values of α . The physical basis and tests of the proposed method support the potential for remote quantification of the near-surface momentum field, as well as scalar-flux measurements in the immediate vicinity of the surface.

Finite Element Solution of Unsteady Mixed Convection Flow of Micropolar Fluid over a Porous Shrinking Sheet

PubMed Central

Gupta, Diksha; Singh, Bani

2014-01-01

The objective of this investigation is to analyze the effect of unsteadiness on the mixed convection boundary layer flow of micropolar fluid over a permeable shrinking sheet in the presence of viscous dissipation. At the sheet a variable distribution of suction is assumed. The unsteadiness in the flow and temperature fields is caused by the time dependence of the shrinking velocity and surface temperature. With the aid of similarity transformations, the governing partial differential equations are transformed into a set of nonlinear ordinary differential equations, which are solved numerically, using variational finite element method. The influence of important physical parameters, namely, suction parameter, unsteadiness parameter, buoyancy parameter and Eckert number on the velocity, microrotation, and temperature functions is investigated and analyzed with the help of their graphical representations. Additionally skin friction and the rate of heat transfer have also been computed. Under special conditions, an exact solution for the flow velocity is compared with the numerical results obtained by finite element method. An excellent agreement is observed for the two sets of solutions. Furthermore, to verify the convergence of numerical results, calculations are conducted with increasing number of elements. PMID:24672310

Buoyancy prime mover

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Everett, T.D.

1982-12-14

A buoyancy prime mover that converts the potential energy of a gas buoyant within a liquid into rotating mechanical energy comprises a plurality of rigid or collapsible buckets joined by one or more chains with rotatable sprockets and shafts to form a continuous loop so that when the buoyant gas is trapped within the buckets, the buckets rise through the liquid and rotate the chain and sprockets to generate power.

Coping and Buoyancy in the Workplace: Understanding Their Effects on Teachers' Work-Related Well-Being and Engagement

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Parker, Philip D.; Martin, Andrew J.

2009-01-01

Given the high levels of attrition in the teaching profession there is a need for research to better understand factors that lead to greater teacher well-being and engagement. The present study explores the roles of coping and buoyancy in predicting teacher well-being and engagement. In particular, a process model is hypothesized in which the use…

Academic Buoyancy and Academic Resilience: Exploring "Everyday" and "Classic" Resilience in the Face of Academic Adversity

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Martin, Andrew J.

2013-01-01

Academic buoyancy has been defined as a capacity to overcome setbacks, challenges, and difficulties that are part of everyday academic life. Academic resilience has been defined as a capacity to overcome acute and/or chronic adversity that is seen as a major threat to a student's educational development. This study is the first to examine the…

Teaching Archimedes' Principle to Sixth Graders without Teaching Mass, Density, Pressure, Volume or Buoyancy

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

Raghavan, Neeraja

2017-01-01

Flotation is usually taught in Indian schools after students have been introduced to the concepts of mass, density, pressure, volume and buoyancy. This paper describes an attempt to teach the principle of flotation to a class of sixth graders--who had not yet been taught these concepts--so they could understand (and perhaps, arrive at) Archimedes'…

Dr. von Braun Tries Out the Neutral Buoyancy Simulator (NBS)

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

1967-01-01

Astronaut L. Gordon Cooper checks the neck ring of a space suit worn by Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) Director, Dr. von Braun before he submerges into the water of the MSFC Neutral Buoyancy Simulator (NBS). Wearing a pressurized suit and weighted to a neutrally buoyant condition, Dr. von Braun was able to perform tasks underwater which simulated weightless conditions found in space.

Using Optimization to Improve NASA Extravehicular Activity Planning

DTIC Science & Technology

2012-09-01

Mission Operations Directorate NASA National Aeronautics and Space Administration NBL Neutral Buoyancy Laboratory ORU Orbital Replacement Unit PET...training is conducted in the Neutral Buoyancy Lab ( NBL ) for full dress rehearsal. The active response gravity offload system is a facility that helps...three NBL runs are dedicated to task and timeline duration validation in normal circumstances, with the possibility of more if the tasks and procedures

Mir training Facility view

NASA Image and Video Library

1995-02-22

S95-04319 (22 Feb 1995) --- The neutral buoyancy facility at the Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center in Star City, Russia, is used for underwater training for missions aboard the Russian Mir Space Station. The facility is similar to NASA's Weightless Environment Training Facility (WET-F) at the Johnson Space Center (JSC) in Houston, Texas, and the Neutral Buoyancy Simulator (NBS) at the Marshall Space Flight Center (MSFC) in Huntsville, Alabama.

Thermosolutal convection in high-aspect-ratio enclosures

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Wang, L. W.; Chen, C. T.

1988-01-01

Convection in high-aspect-ratio rectangular enclosures with combined horizontal temperature and concentration gradients is studied experimentally. An electrochemical system is employed to impose the concentration gradients. The solutal buoyancy force either opposes or augments the thermal buoyancy force. Due to a large difference between the thermal and solutal diffusion rates the flow possesses double-diffusive characteristics. Various complex flow patterns are observed with different experimental conditions.

Concepts of a Higher Hierarchical Level Require More Dual Situated Learning Events for Conceptual Change: A Study of Air Pressure and Buoyancy.

ERIC Educational Resources Information Center

She, Hsiao-Ching

2002-01-01

Examines the process of students' conceptual changes with regard to air pressure and buoyancy as a result of teaching with the dual situated learning model. Uses a model designed according to the students' ontological viewpoint on science concepts as well as the nature of these concepts. (Contains 40 references.) (Author/YDS)

Biologically inspired highly efficient buoyancy engine

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Akle, Barbar; Habchi, Wassim; Abdelnour, Rita; Blottman, John, III; Leo, Donald

2012-04-01

Undersea distributed networked sensor systems require a miniaturization of platforms and a means of both spatial and temporal persistence. One aspect of this system is the necessity to modulate sensor depth for optimal positioning and station-keeping. Current approaches involve pneumatic bladders or electrolysis; both require mechanical subsystems and consume significant power. These are not suitable for the miniaturization of sensor platforms. Presented in this study is a novel biologically inspired method that relies on ionic motion and osmotic pressures to displace a volume of water from the ocean into and out of the proposed buoyancy engine. At a constant device volume, the displaced water will alter buoyancy leading to either sinking or floating. The engine is composed of an enclosure sided on the ocean's end by a Nafion ionomer and by a flexible membrane separating the water from a gas enclosure. Two electrodes are placed one inside the enclosure and the other attached to the engine on the outside. The semi-permeable membrane Nafion allows water motion in and out of the enclosure while blocking anions from being transferred. The two electrodes generate local concentration changes of ions upon the application of an electrical field; these changes lead to osmotic pressures and hence the transfer of water through the semi-permeable membrane. Some aquatic organisms such as pelagic crustacean perform this buoyancy control using an exchange of ions through their tissue to modulate its density relative to the ambient sea water. In this paper, the authors provide an experimental proof of concept of this buoyancy engine. The efficiency of changing the engine's buoyancy is calculated and optimized as a function of electrode surface area. For example electrodes made of a 3mm diameter Ag/AgCl proved to transfer approximately 4mm3 of water consuming 4 Joules of electrical energy. The speed of displacement is optimized as a function of the surface area of the Nafion membrane and its thickness. The 4mm3 displaced volume obtained with the Ag/AgCl electrodes required approximately 380 seconds. The thickness of the Nafion membrane is 180μm and it has an area of 133mm3.

Pressurized Structure Technology for UAVS

DTIC Science & Technology

2008-12-01

deficiencies of the UAVs just listed is to employ lighter-than-air or pressurized structure-based ( PSB ) technology. Basically, the UAV will be built such...that a considerable percentage of its weight is supported by or constructed from inflatable structures containing air or helium. PSB technology...neutral buoyancy will allow much slower flight speeds and increased maneuverability while expending little power. PSB airframes used in conjunction

MOBI: Microgravity Observations of Bubble Interactions

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Koch, Donald L.; Sangani, Ashok

2004-01-01

One of the greatest uncertainties affecting the design of multiphase flow technologies for space exploration is the spatial distribution of phases that will arise in microgravity or reduced gravity. On Earth, buoyancy-driven motion predominates whereas the shearing of the bubble suspension controls its behavior in microgravity. We are conducting a series of ground-based experiments and a flight experiment spanning the full range of ratios of buoyancy to shear. These include: (1) bubbles rising in a quiescent liquid in a vertical channel; (2) weak shear flow induced by slightly inclining the channel; (3) moderate shear flow in a terrestrial vertical pipe flow; and (4) shearing of a bubble suspension in a cylindrical Couette cell in microgravity. We consider nearly monodisperse suspensions of 1 to 1.8 mm diameter bubbles in aqueous electrolyte solutions. The liquid velocity disturbance produced by bubbles in this size range can often be described using an inviscid analysis. Electrolytic solutions lead to hydrophilic repulsion forces that stabilize the bubble suspension without causing Marangoni stresses. We will discuss the mechanisms that control the flow behavior and phase distribution in the ground-based experiments and speculate on the factors that may influence the suspension flow and bubble volume fraction distribution in the flight experiment.

What if the Diatoms of the Deep Chlorophyll Maximum Can Ascend?

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Villareal, T. A.

2016-02-01

Buoyancy regulation is an integral part of diatom ecology via its role in sinking rates and is fundamental to understanding their distribution and abundance. Numerous studies have documented the effects of size and nutrition on sinking rates. Many pelagic diatoms have low intrinsic sinking rates when healthy and nutrient-replete (< 1-2 meters per day). Physiological control of buoyancy via ion regulation and osmolyte control can easily result in cell sap densities less than seawater, resulting in near-zero sinking rates across a large size spectrum of diatoms as well as positive buoyancy in giant diatoms with their low surface:volume ratio. Ascent by smaller diatoms is much less described although predicted in cells as small as 200 cubic microns. Decreased sedimentation rates have long been linked to formation of layers in the water column, particularly at the low light and nutricline conditions of the deep chlorophyll maximum. The potential for ascending behavior adds an additional layer of complexity by allowing both active depth regulation similar to that observed in flagellated taxa and upward transport by some fraction of deep euphotic zone diatom blooms supported by nutrient injection. In this talk, I review the data documenting positive buoyancy in small diatoms, offer direct visual evidence of ascending behavior in common diatoms typical of both oceanic and coastal zones, and note the characteristics of sinking rate distributions within a single species. Buoyancy control leads to bidirectional movement at similar rates across a wide size spectrum of diatoms although the frequency of ascending behavior may be only a small portion of the individual species' abundance. While much remains to be learned, the paradigm of unidirectional downward movement by diatoms is both inaccurate and an oversimplification.

Material transport in a convective surface mixed layer under weak wind forcing

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Mensa, Jean A.; Özgökmen, Tamay M.; Poje, Andrew C.; Imberger, Jörg

2015-12-01

Flows in the upper ocean mixed layer are responsible for the transport and dispersion of biogeochemical tracers, phytoplankton and buoyant pollutants, such as hydrocarbons from an oil spill. Material dispersion in mixed layer flows subject to diurnal buoyancy forcing and weak winds (| u10 | = 5m s-1) are investigated using a non-hydrostatic model. Both purely buoyancy-forced and combined wind- and buoyancy-forced flows are sampled using passive tracers, as well as 2D and 3D particles to explore characteristics of horizontal and vertical dispersion. It is found that the surface tracer patterns are determined by the convergence zones created by convection cells within a time scale of just a few hours. For pure convection, the results displayed the classic signature of Rayleigh-Benard cells. When combined with a wind stress, the convective cells become anisotropic in that the along-wind length scale gets much larger than the cross-wind scale. Horizontal relative dispersion computed by sampling the flow fields using both 2D and 3D passive particles is found to be consistent with the Richardson regime. Relative dispersion is an order of magnitude higher and 2D surface releases transition to Richardson regime faster in the wind-forced case. We also show that the buoyancy-forced case results in significantly lower amplitudes of scale-dependent horizontal relative diffusivity, kD(ℓ), than those reported by Okubo (1970), while the wind- and buoyancy-forced case shows a good agreement with Okubo's diffusivity amplitude, and the scaling is consistent with Richardson's 4/3rd law, kD ∼ ℓ4/3. These modeling results provide a framework for measuring material dispersion by mixed layer flows in future observational programs.

Influence of thermal convection on density segregation in a vibrated binary granular system.

PubMed

Windows-Yule, C R K; Weinhart, T; Parker, D J; Thornton, A R

2014-02-01

Using a combination of experimental results and discrete particle method simulations, the role of buoyancy-driven convection in the segregative behavior of a three-dimensional, binary granular system is investigated. A relationship between convective motion and segregation intensity is presented, and a qualitative explanation for this behavior is proposed. This study also provides an insight into the role of diffusive behavior in the segregation of a granular bed in the convective regime. The results of this work strongly imply the possibility that, for an adequately fluidized granular bed, the degree of segregation may be indirectly controlled through the adjustment of the system's driving parameters, or the dissipative properties of the system's side-boundaries.

Investigation of Vibrational Control of the Bridgman Crystal Growth Technique

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Fedoseyev, Alexandre I.; Alexander, J. I. D.; Feigelson, R. S.; Zharikov, E. V.; Ostrogorsky, A. G.; Marin, C.; Volz, M. P.; Kansa, E. J.; Friedman, M. J.

2001-01-01

The character of natural buoyant convection in rigidly contained inhomogeneous fluids can be drastically altered by vibrating the container. Vibrations are expected to play a crucial influence on heat and mass transfer onboard the International Space Station (ISS). It is becoming evident that substantial vibrations will exist on the ISS in the wide frequency spectrum. In general, vibrational flows are very complex and governed by many parameters. In many terrestrial crystal growth situations, convective transport of heat and constituent components is dominated by buoyancy driven convection arising from compositional and thermal gradients. Thus, it may be concluded that vibro-convective flow can potentially be used to influence and even control transport in some crystal growth situations.

A sensitivity analysis of cloud properties to CLUBB parameters in the single-column Community Atmosphere Model (SCAM5)

DOE PAGES

Guo, Zhun; Wang, Minghuai; Qian, Yun; ...

2014-08-13

In this study, we investigate the sensitivity of simulated shallow cumulus and stratocumulus clouds to selected tunable parameters of Cloud Layers Unified by Binormals (CLUBB) in the single column version of Community Atmosphere Model version 5 (SCAM5). A quasi-Monte Carlo (QMC) sampling approach is adopted to effectively explore the high-dimensional parameter space and a generalized linear model is adopted to study the responses of simulated cloud fields to tunable parameters. One stratocumulus and two shallow convection cases are configured at both coarse and fine vertical resolutions in this study.. Our results show that most of the variance in simulated cloudmore » fields can be explained by a small number of tunable parameters. The parameters related to Newtonian and buoyancy-damping terms of total water flux are found to be the most influential parameters for stratocumulus. For shallow cumulus, the most influential parameters are those related to skewness of vertical velocity, reflecting the strong coupling between cloud properties and dynamics in this regime. The influential parameters in the stratocumulus case are sensitive to the choice of the vertical resolution while little sensitivity is found for the shallow convection cases, as eddy mixing length (or dissipation time scale) plays a more important role and depends more strongly on the vertical resolution in stratocumulus than in shallow convections. The influential parameters remain almost unchanged when the number of tunable parameters increases from 16 to 35. This study improves understanding of the CLUBB behavior associated with parameter uncertainties.« less

A modified emulsion gelation technique to improve buoyancy of hydrogel tablets for floating drug delivery systems.

PubMed

Yom-Tov, Ortal; Seliktar, Dror; Bianco-Peled, Havazelet

2015-10-01

The use of buoyant or floating hydrogel tablets is of particular interest in the sustained release of drugs to the stomach. They have an ability to slow the release rates of drugs by prolonging their absorption window in the upper part of the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. In this study we synthesized bioactive hydrogels that have sustainable release rates for drugs in the stomach based on a hydrogel preparation technique that employs emulsifying surfactants. The emulsion gelation technique, which encapsulates oil droplets within the hydrogels during crosslinking, was used to decrease their specific gravity in aqueous environments, resulting in floating drug release depots. Properties such as swelling, buoyancy, density and drug release were manipulated by changing the polymer concentrations, surfactant percentages and the oil:polymer ratios. The relationship between these properties and the hydrogel's floating lag time was documented. The potential for this material to be used as a floating drug delivery system was demonstrated. Copyright © 2015 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

Heterogeneous nanofluids: natural convection heat transfer enhancement

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Oueslati, Fakhreddine Segni; Bennacer, Rachid

2011-12-01

Convective heat transfer using different nanofluid types is investigated. The domain is differentially heated and nanofluids are treated as heterogeneous mixtures with weak solutal diffusivity and possible Soret separation. Owing to the pronounced Soret effect of these materials in combination with a considerable solutal expansion, the resulting solutal buoyancy forces could be significant and interact with the initial thermal convection. A modified formulation taking into account the thermal conductivity, viscosity versus nanofluids type and concentration and the spatial heterogeneous concentration induced by the Soret effect is presented. The obtained results, by solving numerically the full governing equations, are found to be in good agreement with the developed solution based on the scale analysis approach. The resulting convective flows are found to be dependent on the local particle concentration φ and the corresponding solutal to thermal buoyancy ratio N. The induced nanofluid heterogeneity showed a significant heat transfer modification. The heat transfer in natural convection increases with nanoparticle concentration but remains less than the enhancement previously underlined in forced convection case.

Formation of pseudo-microgravity environment for dusty plasmas in supercritical carbon dioxide

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sakakibara, Noritaka; Matsubayashi, Yasuhito; Ito, Tsuyohito; Terashima, Kazuo

2018-01-01

We realized a pseudo-microgravity environment for dusty plasmas in a ground-based experiment, using the field-emitting regime of a surface dielectric barrier discharge in high-pressure carbon dioxide (CO2) including supercritical conditions. Using the high and adjustable density of high-pressure CO2, the balance between gravitational force and buoyancy was controlled. When changing the density of CO2 in the range of 0.234 g/cm3 to 0.668 g/cm3, i.e., smaller and larger than that of the particles (0.5 g/cm3), a particle arrangement in the direction of the gravitational force was formed only when the density of CO2 was in the range of ±0.17 g/cm3 with respect to that of the particles. This experimentally demonstrates that the pseudo-microgravity that emerges due to the buoyancy from the high-pressure CO2 contributes to the particle arrangement in the gravitational direction, and hence, it compensates the gravity-induced anisotropy.

Heterogeneous nanofluids: natural convection heat transfer enhancement

PubMed Central

2011-01-01

Convective heat transfer using different nanofluid types is investigated. The domain is differentially heated and nanofluids are treated as heterogeneous mixtures with weak solutal diffusivity and possible Soret separation. Owing to the pronounced Soret effect of these materials in combination with a considerable solutal expansion, the resulting solutal buoyancy forces could be significant and interact with the initial thermal convection. A modified formulation taking into account the thermal conductivity, viscosity versus nanofluids type and concentration and the spatial heterogeneous concentration induced by the Soret effect is presented. The obtained results, by solving numerically the full governing equations, are found to be in good agreement with the developed solution based on the scale analysis approach. The resulting convective flows are found to be dependent on the local particle concentration φ and the corresponding solutal to thermal buoyancy ratio N. The induced nanofluid heterogeneity showed a significant heat transfer modification. The heat transfer in natural convection increases with nanoparticle concentration but remains less than the enhancement previously underlined in forced convection case. PMID:21711755

A Response Surface Methodology for Mitigating Hot Gasses in Enclosed Car Park

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Faiz Tharima, Ahmad; Zamri Yusoff, Mohd; Mujibur Rahman, Md

2017-12-01

A hot gas rise towards ceiling due to fire buoyancy will cause severe damage to the building structure. The temperature rises need to be controlled as among the elements of compliance in performance-based design. The channel flow between beams has used in this study to mitigate hot gases out of the enclosure by mean of response surface methodology. Fire Dynamic Simulator was employed as a simulation tool while the result was statistically examined using analysis of variance via Minitab application. It was found that the result was linear with predicted R2 (93.25%) and within the permissible R2 (98.13%). The ceiling height has been identified not affect in controlling hot gases while four control parameters which are beam spacing, transversal beam, extraction rate and longitudinal beam with p-values of 0.00, 0.000, 0.023 and 0.000 respectively, have been found to have the significant effect on the smoke temperature control. This study contributes a good input to the fire safety community in providing the initial design of enclosed car park with better condition.

A new method to optimize natural convection heat sinks

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lampio, K.; Karvinen, R.

2017-08-01

The performance of a heat sink cooled by natural convection is strongly affected by its geometry, because buoyancy creates flow. Our model utilizes analytical results of forced flow and convection, and only conduction in a solid, i.e., the base plate and fins, is solved numerically. Sufficient accuracy for calculating maximum temperatures in practical applications is proved by comparing the results of our model with some simple analytical and computational fluid dynamics (CFD) solutions. An essential advantage of our model is that it cuts down on calculation CPU time by many orders of magnitude compared with CFD. The shorter calculation time makes our model well suited for multi-objective optimization, which is the best choice for improving heat sink geometry, because many geometrical parameters with opposite effects influence the thermal behavior. In multi-objective optimization, optimal locations of components and optimal dimensions of the fin array can be found by simultaneously minimizing the heat sink maximum temperature, size, and mass. This paper presents the principles of the particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm and applies it as a basis for optimizing existing heat sinks.

Tropical cloud buoyancy is the same in a world with or without ice

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Seeley, Jacob T.; Romps, David M.

2016-04-01

When convective clouds grow above the melting line, where temperatures fall below 0°C, condensed water begins to freeze and water vapor is deposited. These processes release the latent heat of fusion, which warms cloud air, and many previous studies have suggested that this heating from fusion increases cloud buoyancy in the upper troposphere. Here we use numerical simulations of radiative-convective equilibrium with and without ice processes to argue that tropical cloud buoyancy is not systematically higher in a world with fusion than in a world without it. This insensitivity results from the fact that the environmental temperature profile encountered by developing tropical clouds is itself determined by convection. We also offer a simple explanation for the large reservoir of convective available potential energy in the tropical upper troposphere that does not invoke ice.

Brief Communication: Buoyancy-Induced Differences in Soot Morphology

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Ku, Jerry C.; Griffin, Devon W.; Greenberg, Paul S.; Roma, John

1995-01-01

Reduction or elimination of buoyancy in flames affects the dominant mechanisms driving heat transfer, burning rates and flame shape. The absence of buoyancy produces longer residence times for soot formation, clustering and oxidation. In addition, soot pathlines are strongly affected in microgravity. We recently conducted the first experiments comparing soot morphology in normal and reduced-gravity laminar gas jet diffusion flames. Thermophoretic sampling is a relatively new but well-established technique for studying the morphology of soot primaries and aggregates. Although there have been some questions about biasing that may be induced due to sampling, recent analysis by Rosner et al. showed that the sample is not biased when the system under study is operating in the continuum limit. Furthermore, even if the sampling is preferentially biased to larger aggregates, the size-invariant premise of fractal analysis should produce a correct fractal dimension.

Development of An Autonomous Underwater Glider for Observing Physical Ocean Parameters in Indonesian Seas

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Ajie Linarka, Utoyo; Riyanto Trilaksono, Bambang; Sagala, M. Faisal; Hidayat, Egi; Sopaheluwakan, Ardhasena; Rizal, Jose; Heriyanto, Eko; Amsal Harapan, Ferdika; Eka Syahputra Makmur, Erwin

2017-04-01

Conducting a sustained monitoring and surveying of physical ocean parameters for research or operational purposes using moorings and ships would require high cost. Development of an inexpensive instrument capable to perform such tasks not only could reduce cost and risks but also increase cruising range and depth. For that reason, a prototype of underwater glider was developed, named "GaneshBlue". GaneshBlue works based on gliding principles which utilizes pitch angle and buoyancy control for moving. For one gliding movement, GaneshBlue passed through 5 phases of surface, descent, transition, ascent and back to surface. The glider is equipped with basic navigation system and remote control, programmable survey planning, temperature and salinity sampling instruments, lithium batteries for power supply, and information processing software. A field test at the shallow water showed that GaneshBule has successfully demonstrated gliding and surfacing movements with surge motion speed reaching 20 cm s-1and 20 m in depths. During the field test the glider was also equipped with three instruments, i.e. Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) to estimate glider's speed and orientation; MiniCT to acquire temperature and conductivity data; and Altisounder to determine its distance to sea surface and to seabed. In general, all the instruments performed well but filter algorithm needs to be implemented on data collection procedure to remove data outliers.

The flow patterning capability of localized natural convection.

PubMed

Huang, Ling-Ting; Chao, Ling

2016-09-14

Controlling flow patterns to align materials can have various applications in optics, electronics, and biosciences. In this study, we developed a natural-convection-based method to create desirable spatial flow patterns by controlling the locations of heat sources. Fluid motion in natural convection is induced by the spatial fluid density gradient that is caused by the established spatial temperature gradient. To analyze the patterning resolution capability of this method, we used a mathematical model combined with nondimensionalization to correlate the flow patterning resolution with experimental operating conditions. The nondimensionalized model suggests that the flow pattern and resolution is only influenced by two dimensionless parameters, and , where Gr is the Grashof number, representing the ratio of buoyancy to the viscous force acting on a fluid, and Pr is the Prandtl number, representing the ratio of momentum diffusivity to thermal diffusivity. We used the model to examine all of the flow behaviors in a wide range of the two dimensionless parameter group and proposed a flow pattern state diagram which suggests a suitable range of operating conditions for flow patterning. In addition, we developed a heating wire with an angular configuration, which enabled us to efficiently examine the pattern resolution capability numerically and experimentally. Consistent resolutions were obtained between the experimental results and model predictions, suggesting that the state diagram and the identified operating range can be used for further application.

Low-g simulation testing of propellant systems using neutral buoyancy

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Balzer, D. L.; Lake, R. J., Jr.

1972-01-01

A two liquid, neutral buoyancy technique is being used to simulate propellant behavior in a weightless environment. By equalizing the density of two immiscible liquids within a container (propellant tank), the effect of gravity at the liquid interface is balanced. Therefore the surface-tension forces dominate to control the liquid/liquid system configuration in a fashion analogous to a liquid/gas system in a zero gravity environment.

Effects of salinity and sea salt type on egg activation, fertilization, buoyancy and early embryology of European eel, Anguilla anguilla.

PubMed

Sørensen, Sune Riis; Butts, Ian Anthony Ernest; Munk, Peter; Tomkiewicz, Jonna

2016-02-01

Improper activation and swelling of in vitro produced eggs of European eel, Anguilla anguilla, has been shown to negatively affect embryonic development and hatching. We investigated this phenomenon by examining the effects of salinity and sea salt type on egg dimensions, cell cleavage patterns and egg buoyancy. Egg diameter after activation, using natural seawater adjusted to different salinities, varied among female eels, but no consistent pattern emerged. Activation salinities between 30-40 practical salinity unit (psu) produced higher quality eggs and generally larger egg diameters. Chorion diameters reached maximal values of 1642 ± 8 μm at 35 psu. A positive relationship was found between egg neutral buoyancy and activation salinity. Nine salt types were investigated as activation and incubation media. Five of these types induced a substantial perivitelline space (PVS), leading to large egg sizes, while the remaining four salt types resulted in smaller eggs. All salt types except NaCl treatments led to high fertilization rates and had no effect on fertilization success as well as egg neutral buoyancies at 7 h post-fertilization. The study points to the importance of considering ionic composition of the media when rearing fish eggs and further studies are encouraged.

From inflation to flotation: contribution of the swimbladder to whole-body density and swimming depth during development of the zebrafish (Danio rerio).

PubMed

Lindsey, Benjamin W; Smith, Frank M; Croll, Roger P

2010-03-01

Teleost fishes have body tissues that are denser than water, causing them to sink. Many teleosts therefore possess a gas-filled swimbladder that provides lift, allowing fish to attain neutral buoyancy. The importance of the swimbladder as a buoyancy aid during changing body sizes over ontogeny and its role in determining the swimming depth of fish remain unclear. In this study, we have used the zebrafish (Danio rerio) to investigate changes in the size and shape of the swimbladder during development and examine whether these changes affect the hydrostatic contribution of the swimbladder during swimming. Our results showed that swim-up behavior is critical for larvae to first inflate their swimbladder, decrease body density, and attain neutral buoyancy. Following inflation, we found a strong linear correlation between fish volume and swimbladder volume over ontogeny. This trend was supported by measures of the density of zebrafish, which was conserved within a narrow range between 1.00 +/- 0.001 and 0.996 +/- 0.001 g/cm(3) despite an increase in the swimming depth of zebrafish, which occurred upon transition to a double-chambered organ. Finally, we demonstrated that the contribution of the swimbladder keeps the fish within 1.7% of neutral buoyancy throughout larval development.

To Float or Not to Float: How Interactions between Light and Dissolved Inorganic Carbon Species Determine the Buoyancy of Stratiotes aloides

PubMed Central

Harpenslager, Sarah F.; Smolders, Alfons J. P.; Kieskamp, Ariët A. M.; Roelofs, Jan G. M.; Lamers, Leon P. M.

2015-01-01

Structural diversity formed by dense, floating Stratiotes aloides stands, generates hotspots of biodiversity of flora and fauna in wetlands. However, only part of the populations become emergent and provide this important facilitation. Since it has been hypothesised that its buoyancy depends on the rates of underwater photosynthesis, we investigated the role of dissolved CO2 availability and PAR on photosynthesis, biomass production and buoyancy in a controlled greenhouse experiment. Photosynthesis and growth were strongly influenced by both PAR and CO2 availability. At low PAR, plants formed less biomass and produced no emergent leaves, even when CO2 was abundant. At low CO2 levels, S. aloides switched to HCO3 - use, resulting in a lower photosynthetic O2 production, decreased emergent leaf formation and increased CaCO3 precipitation on its leaves, all of which impaired buoyancy. At high PAR, low CO2 availability resulted in slower colonisation of the water layer, whereas CO2 availability did not influence PAR-limited plants. Our study shows that site conditions, rather than the sole abundance of potentially facilitating species, may strongly determine whether or not they form the structure necessary to act as a facilitator for biodiversity in aquatic environments. PMID:25909504

Effects of gravity on sheared and nonsheared turbulent nonpremixed flames

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Elghobashi, Said; Lee, Yong-Yao; Zhong, Rongbin

1995-01-01

The present numerical study is concerned with the fundamental physics of the multiway interaction between turbulence, chemical reaction, and buoyancy in a nonpremixed flame. The method of direct numerical simulation (DNS) is used to solve the instantaneous, three-dimensional governing equations. Because of the present supercomputer limitations, we consider two simple flow geometries, namely an initially uniform flow without shear (equivalent to grid-generated turbulence) and an initially uniform shear flow. In each flow, the fuel and oxidant initially exist as two separate streams. As the reactants mix, chemical reaction takes place and exothermic energy is released causing variations in density. In the presence of a gravity field, the spatial and temporal distributions of the induced buoyancy forces depend on the local density gradients and the direction of the gravitational acceleration. The effects of buoyancy include the generation of local shear, baroclinic production or destruction of vorticity, and countergradient heat and mass transport. Increased vorticity and small-scale turbulence promote further mixing and reaction. However, if the strain-rates become too high, local flame extinction can occur. Our objective is to gain an understanding of the complex interactions between the physical phenomena involved, with particular attention to the effects of buoyancy on the turbulence structure, flame behavior, and factors influencing flame extinction.

Effect of the radial buoyancy on a circular Couette flow

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Meyer, Antoine; Yoshikawa, Harunori N.; Mutabazi, Innocent

2015-11-01

The effect of a radial temperature gradient on the stability of a circular Couette flow is investigated when the gravitational acceleration is neglected. The induced radial stratification of the fluid density coupled with the centrifugal acceleration generates radial buoyancy which is centrifugal for inward heating and centripetal for outward heating. This radial buoyancy modifies the Rayleigh discriminant and induces the asymmetry between inward heating and outward heating in flow behavior. The critical modes are axisymmetric and stationary for inward heating while for outward heating, they can be oscillatory axisymmetric or nonaxisymmetric depending on fluid diffusion properties, i.e., on the Prandtl number Pr. The dependence of the critical modes on Pr is explored for different values of the radius ratio of the annulus. The power input of the radial buoyancy is compared with other power terms. The critical frequency of the oscillatory axisymmetric modes is linked to the Brunt-Väisälä frequency due to the density stratification in the radial gravity field induced by the rotation. These modes are associated with inertial waves. The dispersion relation of the oscillatory axisymmetric modes is derived in the vicinity of the critical conditions. A weakly nonlinear amplitude equation with a forcing term is proposed to explain the domination of these axisymmetric oscillatory modes over the stationary centrifugal mode.

Coastal Microstructure: From Active Overturn to Fossil Turbulence

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tau Leung, Pak

2011-11-01

The Remote Anthropogenic Sensing Program was a five year effort (2001- 2005) to examine subsurface phenomena related to a sewage outfall off the coast of Oahu, Hawaii. This research has implications for basic ocean hydrodynamics, particularly for a greatly improved understanding of the evolution of turbulent patches. It was the first time a microstructure measurement was used to study such a buoyancy-driven turbulence generated by a sea-floor diffuser. In 2004, two stations were selected to represent the near field and ambient conditions. They have nearly identical bathymetrical and hydrographical features and provide an ideal environment for a control experiment. Repeated vertical microstructure measurements were performed at both stations for 20 days. A time series of physical parameters was collected and used for statistical analysis. After comparing the data from both stations, it can be concluded that the turbulent mixing generated by the diffuser contributes to the elevated dissipation rate observed in the pycnocline and bottom boundary layer. To further understand the mixing processes in both regions, data were plotted on a Hydrodynamic Phase Diagram. The overturning stages of the turbulent patches are identified by Hydrodynamic Phase Diagram. This technique provides detailed information on the evolution of the turbulent patches from active overturns to fossilized scalar microstructures in the water column. Results from this study offer new evidence to support the fossil turbulence theory. This study concluded that: 1. Field Data collected near a sea-floor outfall diffuser show that turbulent patches evolve from active (overturning) to fossil (buoyancy-inhibited) stages, consistent with the process of turbulent patch evolution proposed by fossil turbulence theory. 2. The data show that active (overturning) and fossil (buoyancy-inhibited) patches have smaller length scales than the active+fossil (intermediate) stage of patch evolution, consistent with fossil turbulence theory and with laboratory studies. 3. Compared to a far-field reference, elevated dissipation rates near the diffuser were found in the seasonal pycnocline as well as in the bottom boundary layer. 4. More than 90% of the turbulent patches observed in the water column were non- overturning (active+fossil and fossil). Such patches can provide significant mixing in the interior of the ocean, far from surface and bottom boundary layers.

Buoyancy-driven convection around chemical fronts traveling in covered horizontal solution layers.

PubMed

Rongy, L; Goyal, N; Meiburg, E; De Wit, A

2007-09-21

Density differences across an autocatalytic chemical front traveling horizontally in covered thin layers of solution trigger hydrodynamic flows which can alter the concentration profile. We theoretically investigate the spatiotemporal evolution and asymptotic dynamics resulting from such an interplay between isothermal chemical reactions, diffusion, and buoyancy-driven convection. The studied model couples the reaction-diffusion-convection evolution equation for the concentration of an autocatalytic species to the incompressible Stokes equations ruling the evolution of the flow velocity in a two-dimensional geometry. The dimensionless parameter of the problem is a solutal Rayleigh number constructed upon the characteristic reaction-diffusion length scale. We show numerically that the asymptotic dynamics is one steady vortex surrounding, deforming, and accelerating the chemical front. This chemohydrodynamic structure propagating at a constant speed is quite different from the one obtained in the case of a pure hydrodynamic flow resulting from the contact between two solutions of different density or from the pure reaction-diffusion planar traveling front. The dynamics is symmetric with regard to the middle of the layer thickness for positive and negative Rayleigh numbers corresponding to products, respectively, lighter or heavier than the reactants. A parametric study shows that the intensity of the flow, the propagation speed, and the deformation of the front are increasing functions of the Rayleigh number and of the layer thickness. In particular, the asymptotic mixing length and reaction-diffusion-convection speed both scale as square root Ra for Ra>5. The velocity and concentration fields in the asymptotic dynamics are also found to exhibit self-similar properties with Ra. A comparison of the dynamics in the case of a monostable versus bistable kinetics is provided. Good agreement is obtained with experimental data on the speed of iodate-arsenous acid fronts propagating in horizontal capillaries. We furthermore compare the buoyancy-driven dynamics studied here to Marangoni-driven deformation of traveling chemical fronts in solution open to the air in the absence of gravity previously studied in the same geometry [L. Rongy and A. De Wit, J. Chem. Phys. 124, 164705 (2006)].

Role of head of turbulent 3-D density currents in mixing during slumping regime

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Bhaganagar, Kiran

2017-02-01

A fundamental study was conducted to shed light on entrainment and mixing in buoyancy-driven Boussinesq density currents. Large-eddy simulation was performed on lock-exchange (LE) release density currents—an idealized test bed to generate density currents. As dense fluid was released over a sloping surface into an ambient lighter fluid, the dense fluid slumps to the bottom and forms a characteristic head of the current. The dynamics of the head dictated the mixing processes in LE currents. The key contribution of this study is to resolve an ongoing debate on mixing: We demonstrate that substantial mixing occurs in the early stages of evolution in an LE experiment and that entrainment is highly inhomogeneous and unsteady during the slumping regime. Guided by the flow physics, entrainment is calculated using two different but related perspectives. In the first approach, the entrainment parameter (E) is defined as the fraction of ambient fluid displaced by the head that entrains into the current. It is an indicator of the efficiency in which ambient fluid is displaced into the current and it serves as an important metric to compare the entrainment of dense currents over different types of surfaces, e.g., roughness configuration. In the second approach, E measures the net entrainment in the current at an instantaneous time t over the length of the current. Net entrainment coefficient is a metric to compare the effects of flow dynamical conditions, i.e., lock-aspect ratio that dictates the fraction of buoyancy entering the head, and also the effect of the sloping angle. Together, the entrainment coefficient and the net entrainment coefficient provide an insight into the entrainment process. The "active" head of the current acts as an engine that mixes the ambient fluid with the existing dense fluid, the 3-D lobes and clefts on the frontal end of the current causes recirculation of the ambient fluid into the current, and Kelvin-Helmholtz rolls are the mixers that entrain the ambience into the current. Buoyancy and shear production occur at the interface in the head region of the current, and transport of turbulence kinetic energy (TKE) by Reynolds stresses results in high TKE.

Inter-comparison of three-dimensional models of volcanic plumes

USGS Publications Warehouse

Suzuki, Yujiro; Costa, Antonio; Cerminara, Matteo; Esposti Ongaro, Tomaso; Herzog, Michael; Van Eaton, Alexa; Denby, Leif

2016-01-01

We performed an inter-comparison study of three-dimensional models of volcanic plumes. A set of common volcanological input parameters and meteorological conditions were provided for two kinds of eruptions, representing a weak and a strong eruption column. From the different models, we compared the maximum plume height, neutral buoyancy level (where plume density equals that of the atmosphere), and level of maximum radial spreading of the umbrella cloud. We also compared the vertical profiles of eruption column properties, integrated across cross-sections of the plume (integral variables). Although the models use different numerical procedures and treatments of subgrid turbulence and particle dynamics, the inter-comparison shows qualitatively consistent results. In the weak plume case (mass eruption rate 1.5 × 106 kg s− 1), the vertical profiles of plume properties (e.g., vertical velocity, temperature) are similar among models, especially in the buoyant plume region. Variability among the simulated maximum heights is ~ 20%, whereas neutral buoyancy level and level of maximum radial spreading vary by ~ 10%. Time-averaging of the three-dimensional (3D) flow fields indicates an effective entrainment coefficient around 0.1 in the buoyant plume region, with much lower values in the jet region, which is consistent with findings of small-scale laboratory experiments. On the other hand, the strong plume case (mass eruption rate 1.5 × 109 kg s− 1) shows greater variability in the vertical plume profiles predicted by the different models. Our analysis suggests that the unstable flow dynamics in the strong plume enhances differences in the formulation and numerical solution of the models. This is especially evident in the overshooting top of the plume, which extends a significant portion (~ 1/8) of the maximum plume height. Nonetheless, overall variability in the spreading level and neutral buoyancy level is ~ 20%, whereas that of maximum height is ~ 10%. This inter-comparison study has highlighted the different capabilities of 3D volcanic plume models, and identified key features of weak and strong plumes, including the roles of jet stability, entrainment efficiency, and particle non-equilibrium, which deserve future investigation in field, laboratory, and numerical studies.

The Impact on Simulated Storm Structure and Intensity of Variations in the Lifted Condensation Level and the Level of Free Convection

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

McCaul, Eugene W., Jr.; Cohen, Charles; Arnold, James E. (Technical Monitor)

2001-01-01

The sensitivities of convective storm structure and intensity to changes in the altitudes of the prestorm environmental lifted condensation level and level of free convection axe studied using a full-physics three-dimensional cloud model. Matrices of simulations are conducted for a range of LCL=LFC altitudes, using a single moderately-sheared curved hodograph trace in conjunction with 1 convective available potential energy values of either 800 or 2000 J/kg, with the matrices consisting of all four combinations of two distinct choices of buoyancy and shear profile shape. For each value of CAPE, the LCL=LFC altitudes are also allowed to vary in a series of simulations based on the most highly compressed buoyancy and shear profiles for that CAPE, with the environmental buoyancy profile shape, subcloud equivalent potential temperature, subcloud lapse rates of temperature and moisture, and wind profile held fixed. For each CAPE, one final simulation is conducted using a near optimal LFC, but a lowered LCL, with a neutrally buoyant environmental thermal profile specified in between. Results show that, for the buoyancy-starved small-CAPE environments, the simulated storms are supercells and are generally largest and most intense when LCL=LFC altitudes lie in the approximate range 1.5-2.5 km above the surface. The simulations show similar trends for the shear-starved large-CAPE environments, except that conversion from supercell to multicell morphology frequently occurs when the LCL is high. For choices of LCL=LFC height within the optimal 1.5-2.5 km range, peak storm updraft overturning efficiency may approaches unity relative to parcel theory, while for lower LCL=LFC heights, overturning efficiency is reduced significantly. The enhancements of overturning efficiency and updraft diameter with increasing LFC height are shown to be the result of systematic increases in the mean equivalent potential temperature of the updraft at cloud base. For the shear-starved environments, the tendency for outflow dominance is eliminated, but a large overturning efficiency maintained, when a low LCL is used in conjunction with a high LFC. The result regarding outflow dominance at high LCL is consistent with expectations, but the beneficial effect of a high LFC on convective overturning efficiency has not previously been widely recognized. The simulation findings here also appear to be consistent with statistics from previous severe storm environment climatologies, but provide a new framework for interpreting those statistics.

A novel Eulerian approach for modelling cyanobacteria movement: Thin layer formation and recurrent risk to drinking water intakes.

PubMed

Ndong, Mouhamed; Bird, David; Nguyen Quang, Tri; Kahawita, René; Hamilton, David; de Boutray, Marie Laure; Prévost, Michèle; Dorner, Sarah

2017-12-15

Toxic cyanobacteria (CB) blooms are being reported in an increasing number of water bodies worldwide. As drinking water (DW) treatment can be disrupted by CB, in addition to long term management plans, short term operational decision-making tools are needed that enable an understanding of the temporal variability of CB movement in relation to drinking water intakes. In this paper, we propose a novel conservative model based on a Eulerian framework and compare results with data from CB blooms in Missisquoi Bay (Québec, Canada). The hydrodynamic model considered the effects of wind and light intensity, demonstrated that current understanding of cell buoyancy in relation to light intensity in full-scale systems is incomplete and some factors are yet to be fully characterized. Factors affecting CB buoyancy play a major role in the formation of a thin surface layer that could be of ecological importance with regards to cell concentrations and toxin production. Depending on velocities, wind contributes either to the accumulation or to the dispersion of CB. Lake recirculation effects have a tendency to create zones of low CB concentrations in a water body. Monitoring efforts and future research should focus on short-term variations of CB throughout the water column and the characterization of factors other than light intensity that affect cell buoyancy. These factors are critical for understanding the risk of breakthrough into treatment plants as well as the formation of surface scums and subsequent toxin production. Copyright © 2017 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

A new back-and-forth iterative method for time-reversed convection modeling: Implications for the Cenozoic evolution of 3-D structure and dynamics of the mantle

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Glišović, Petar; Forte, Alessandro M.

2016-06-01

The 3-D distribution of buoyancy in the convecting mantle drives a suite of convection-related manifestations. Although seismic tomography is providing increasingly resolved images of the present-day mantle heterogeneity, the distribution of mantle density variations in the geological past is unknown, and, by implication, this is true for the convection-related observables. The one major exception is tectonic plate motions, since geologic data are available to estimate their history and they currently provide the only available constraints on the evolution of 3-D mantle buoyancy in the past. We developed a new back-and-forth iterative method for time-reversed convection modeling with a procedure for matching plate velocity data at different instants in the past. The crucial aspect of this reconstruction methodology is to ensure that at all times plates are driven by buoyancy forces in the mantle and not vice versa. Employing tomography-based retrodictions over the Cenozoic, we estimate the global amplitude of the following observables: dynamic surface topography, the core-mantle boundary ellipticity, the free-air gravity anomalies, and the global divergence rates of tectonic plates. One of the major benefits of the new data assimilation method is the stable recovery of much shorter wavelength changes in heterogeneity than was possible in our previous work. We now resolve what appears to be two-stage subduction of the Farallon plate under the western U.S. and a deeply rooted East African Plume that is active under the Ethiopian volcanic fields during the Early Eocene.

Characteristics of the Martian atmosphere surface layer

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Clow, G. D.; Haberle, R. M.

1990-01-01

Elements of various terrestrial boundary layer models are extended to Mars in order to estimate sensible heat, latent heat, and momentum fluxes within the Martian atmospheric surface ('constant flux') layer. The atmospheric surface layer consists of an interfacial sublayer immediately adjacent to the ground and an overlying fully turbulent surface sublayer where wind-shear production of turbulence dominates buoyancy production. Within the interfacial sublayer, sensible and latent heat are transported by non-steady molecular diffusion into small-scale eddies which intermittently burst through this zone. Both the thickness of the interfacial sublayer and the characteristics of the turbulent eddies penetrating through it depend on whether airflow is aerodynamically smooth or aerodynamically rough, as determined by the Roughness Reynold's number. Within the overlying surface sublayer, similarity theory can be used to express the mean vertical windspeed, temperature, and water vapor profiles in terms of a single parameter, the Monin-Obukhov stability parameter. To estimate the molecular viscosity and thermal conductivity of a CO2-H2O gas mixture under Martian conditions, parameterizations were developed using data from the TPRC Data Series and the first-order Chapman-Cowling expressions; the required collision integrals were approximated using the Lenard-Jones potential. Parameterizations for specific heat and binary diffusivity were also determined. The Brutsart model for sensible and latent heat transport within the interfacial sublayer for both aerodynamically smooth and rough airflow was experimentally tested under similar conditions, validating its application to Martian conditions. For the surface sublayer, the definition of the Monin-Obukhov length was modified to properly account for the buoyancy forces arising from water vapor gradients in the Martian atmospheric boundary layer. It was found that under most Martian conditions, the interfacial and surface sublayers offer roughly comparable resistance to sensible heat and water vapor transport and are thus both important in determining the associated fluxes.

The role of small-scale convection on the formation of volcanic passive margins

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Van Hunen, J.; Phethean, J. J. J.

2014-12-01

Several models have been presented in the literature to explain volcanic passive margins (VPMs), including variation in rifting speed or history, enhanced melting from mantle plumes, and enhanced flow through the melting zone by small-scale convection (SSC) driven by lithospheric detachments. Understanding the mechanism is important to constrain the paleo-heat flow and petroleum potential of VPM. Using 2D and 3D numerical models, we investigate the influence of SSC on the rate of crust production during continental rifting. Conceptually, SSC results in up/downwellings with a typical spacing of a few-100 km, and may lead to enhanced decompression melting. Subsequent mantle depletion changes buoyancy (from latent heat consumption and compositional changes), and affects mantle dynamics under the MOR and potentially any further melting. Decompression melting leads to a colder, thermally denser residue (from consumption of latent heat of melting), but also a compositionally more buoyant one. A parameter sensitivity study of the effects of mantle viscosity, spreading rate, mantle temperature, and a range material parameters indicates that competition between thermal and compositional buoyancy determines the mantle dynamics. For mantle viscosities ηm > ~1022 Pa s, no SSC occurs, and a uniform 7-8 km-thick oceanic crust forms. For ηm < ~1021 Pa s, SSC is vigorous and can form VPMs with > 10-20 km crust. If thermal density effects dominate, a vigorous (inverted) convection may drive significant decompression melting, and create VPMs. Such dynamics could also explain the continent-dipping normal faults that are commonly observed at VPMs. After the initial rifting phase, the crustal thickness reduces significantly, but not always to a uniformly thick 7-8 km, as would be appropriate for mature oceanic basins. Transverse convection rolls may result in margin-parallel crustal thickness variation, possibly related to observations such as the East-Coast Magnetic Anomaly.

Frontal Polymerization in Microgravity

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Pojman, John A.

1999-01-01

Frontal polymerization systems, with their inherent large thermal and compositional gradients, are greatly affected by buoyancy-driven convection. Sounding rocket experiments allowed the preparation of benchmark materials and demonstrated that methods to suppress the Rayleigh-Taylor instability in ground-based research did not significantly affect the molecular weight of the polymer. Experiments under weightlessness show clearly that bubbles produced during the reaction interact very differently than under 1 g.

Space telescope neutral buoyancy simulations: The first two years

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Sanders, F. G.

1982-01-01

Neutral Buoyancy simulations which were conducted to validate the crew systems interface as it relates to space telescope on-orbit maintenance and contingency operations is discussed. The initial concept validation tests using low fidelity mockups is described. The entire spectrum of proposed space telescope refurbishment and selected contingencies using upgraded mockups which reflect flight hardware are reported. Findings which may be applicable to future efforts of a similar nature are presented.

Arctic sea-ice decline weakens the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Sévellec, Florian; Fedorov, Alexey V.; Liu, Wei

2017-08-01

The ongoing decline of Arctic sea ice exposes the ocean to anomalous surface heat and freshwater fluxes, resulting in positive buoyancy anomalies that can affect ocean circulation. In this study, we use an optimal flux perturbation framework and comprehensive climate model simulations to estimate the sensitivity of the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) to such buoyancy forcing over the Arctic and globally, and more generally to sea-ice decline. It is found that on decadal timescales, flux anomalies over the subpolar North Atlantic have the largest impact on the AMOC, while on multi-decadal timescales (longer than 20 years), flux anomalies in the Arctic become more important. These positive buoyancy anomalies spread to the North Atlantic, weakening the AMOC and its poleward heat transport. Therefore, the Arctic sea-ice decline may explain the suggested slow-down of the AMOC and the `Warming Hole’ persisting in the subpolar North Atlantic.

Numerical analysis of natural convection in liquid droplets by phase change

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Duh, J. C.; Yang, Wen-Jei

1989-09-01

A numerical analysis is performed on thermocapillary buoyancy convection induced by phase change in a liquid droplet. A finite-difference code is developed using an alternating-direction implicit (ADI) scheme. The intercoupling relation between thermocapillary force, buoyancy force, fluid property, heat transfer, and phase change, along with their effects on the induced flow patterns, are disclosed. The flow is classified into three types: thermocapillary, buoyancy, and combined convection. Among the three mechanisms, the combined convection simulates the experimental observations quite well, and the basic mechanism of the observed convection inside evaporating sessile drops is thus identified. It is disclosed that evaporation initiates unstable convection, while condensation always brings about a stable density distribution which eventually damps out all fluid disturbances. Another numerical model is presented to study the effect of boundary recession due to evaporation, and the 'peeling-off' effect (the removal of the surface layer of fluid by evaporation) is shown to be relevant.

Characterization of cement float buoyancy in the stalked barnacle Dosima fascicularis (Crustacea, Cirripedia).

PubMed

Zheden, Vanessa; Kovalev, Alexander; Gorb, Stanislav N; Klepal, Waltraud

2015-02-06

Dosima fascicularis is the only barnacle which can drift autonomously at the water surface with a foam-like cement float. The cement secreted by the animal contains numerous gas-filled cells of different size. When several individuals share one float, their size and not their number is crucial for the production of both volume and mass of the float. The gas content within the cells of the foam gives positive static buoyancy to the whole float. The volume of the float, the gas volume and the positive static buoyancy are positively correlated. The density of the cement float without gas is greater than that of seawater. This study shows that the secreted cement consists of more than 90% water and the gas volume is on average 18.5%. Our experiments demonstrate that the intact foam-like cement float is sealed to the surrounding water.

Characterization of cement float buoyancy in the stalked barnacle Dosima fascicularis (Crustacea, Cirripedia)

PubMed Central

Zheden, Vanessa; Kovalev, Alexander; Gorb, Stanislav N.; Klepal, Waltraud

2015-01-01

Dosima fascicularis is the only barnacle which can drift autonomously at the water surface with a foam-like cement float. The cement secreted by the animal contains numerous gas-filled cells of different size. When several individuals share one float, their size and not their number is crucial for the production of both volume and mass of the float. The gas content within the cells of the foam gives positive static buoyancy to the whole float. The volume of the float, the gas volume and the positive static buoyancy are positively correlated. The density of the cement float without gas is greater than that of seawater. This study shows that the secreted cement consists of more than 90% water and the gas volume is on average 18.5%. Our experiments demonstrate that the intact foam-like cement float is sealed to the surrounding water. PMID:25657839

Numerical analysis of natural convection in liquid droplets by phase change

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Duh, J. C.; Yang, Wen-Jei

1989-01-01

A numerical analysis is performed on thermocapillary buoyancy convection induced by phase change in a liquid droplet. A finite-difference code is developed using an alternating-direction implicit (ADI) scheme. The intercoupling relation between thermocapillary force, buoyancy force, fluid property, heat transfer, and phase change, along with their effects on the induced flow patterns, are disclosed. The flow is classified into three types: thermocapillary, buoyancy, and combined convection. Among the three mechanisms, the combined convection simulates the experimental observations quite well, and the basic mechanism of the observed convection inside evaporating sessile drops is thus identified. It is disclosed that evaporation initiates unstable convection, while condensation always brings about a stable density distribution which eventually damps out all fluid disturbances. Another numerical model is presented to study the effect of boundary recession due to evaporation, and the 'peeling-off' effect (the removal of the surface layer of fluid by evaporation) is shown to be relevant.

Single Bubble Sonoluminescence in Low Gravity and Optical Radiation Pressure Positioning of the Bubble

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Thiessen, D. B.; Young, J. E.; Marr-Lyon, M. J.; Richardson, S. L.; Breckon, C. D.; Douthit, S. G.; Jian, P. S.; Torruellas, W. E.; Marston, P. L.

1999-01-01

Several groups of researchers have demonstrated that high frequency sound in water may be used to cause the regular repeated compression and luminescence of a small bubble of gas in a flask. The phenomenon is known as single bubble sonoluminescence (SBSL). It is potentially important because light emitted by the bubble appears to be associated with a significant concentration of energy within the volume of the bubble. Unfortunately, the detailed physical mechanisms causing the radiation of light by oscillating bubbles are poorly understood and there is some evidence that carrying out experiments in a weightless environment may provide helpful clues. In addition, the radiation pressure of laser beams on the bubble may provide a way of simulating weightless experiments in the laboratory. The standard model of SBSL attributes the light emission to heating within the bubble by a spherically imploding shock wave to achieve temperatures of 50,000 K or greater. In an alternative model, the emission is attributed to the impact of a jet of water which is required to span the bubble and the formation of the jet is linked to the buoyancy of the bubble. The coupling between buoyancy and jet formation is a consequence of the displacement of the bubble from a velocity node (pressure antinode) of the standing acoustic wave that drives the radial bubble oscillations. One objective of this grant is to understand SBSL emission in reduced buoyancy on KC-135 parabolic flights. To optimize the design of those experiments and for other reasons which will help resolve the role of buoyancy, laboratory experiments are planned in simulated low gravity in which the radiation pressure of laser light will be used to position the bubble at the acoustic velocity node of the ultrasonic standing wave. Laser light will also be used to push the bubble away from the velocity node, increasing the effective buoyancy. The original experiments on the optical levitation and radiation pressure on bubbles in water by Unger and Marston noted above were carried out using a continuous wave (CW) beam of an Argon laser. For lateral stability the beam had a intensity minimum along its axis. Calculations of the optical radiation force on an SBSL bubble indicate that ion laser technology is a poor choice for providing the magnitude of the average optical radiation force required. Consequently it is necessary to examine various diode-pumped solid state laser technologies. The approach for this part of the research will be to achieve optical levitation of a quiescent bubble based on contemporary laser technology and then to strobe the laser synchronously with the SBSL bubble oscillations.

Double diffusive magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) mixed convective slip flow along a radiating moving vertical flat plate with convective boundary condition.

PubMed

Rashidi, Mohammad M; Kavyani, Neda; Abelman, Shirley; Uddin, Mohammed J; Freidoonimehr, Navid

2014-01-01

In this study combined heat and mass transfer by mixed convective flow along a moving vertical flat plate with hydrodynamic slip and thermal convective boundary condition is investigated. Using similarity variables, the governing nonlinear partial differential equations are converted into a system of coupled nonlinear ordinary differential equations. The transformed equations are then solved using a semi-numerical/analytical method called the differential transform method and results are compared with numerical results. Close agreement is found between the present method and the numerical method. Effects of the controlling parameters, including convective heat transfer, magnetic field, buoyancy ratio, hydrodynamic slip, mixed convective, Prandtl number and Schmidt number are investigated on the dimensionless velocity, temperature and concentration profiles. In addition effects of different parameters on the skin friction factor, [Formula: see text], local Nusselt number, [Formula: see text], and local Sherwood number [Formula: see text] are shown and explained through tables.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

Khan, Masood; Malik, Rabia, E-mail: rabiamalik.qau@gmail.com; Munir, Asif

In this article, the mixed convective heat transfer to Sisko fluid over a radially stretching surface in the presence of convective boundary conditions is investigated. The viscous dissipation and thermal radiation effects are also taken into account. The suitable transformations are applied to convert the governing partial differential equations into a set of nonlinear coupled ordinary differential equations. The analytical solution of the governing problem is obtained by using the homotopy analysis method (HAM). Additionally, these analytical results are compared with the numerical results obtained by the shooting technique. The obtained results for the velocity and temperature are analyzed graphicallymore » for several physical parameters for the assisting and opposing flows. It is found that the effect of buoyancy parameter is more prominent in case of the assisting flow as compared to the opposing flow. Further, in tabular form the numerical values are given for the local skin friction coefficient and local Nusselt number. A remarkable agreement is noticed by comparing the present results with the results reported in the literature as a special case.« less

Approaching a realistic force balance in geodynamo simulations

PubMed Central

Yadav, Rakesh K.; Gastine, Thomas; Christensen, Ulrich R.; Wolk, Scott J.; Poppenhaeger, Katja

2016-01-01

Earth sustains its magnetic field by a dynamo process driven by convection in the liquid outer core. Geodynamo simulations have been successful in reproducing many observed properties of the geomagnetic field. However, although theoretical considerations suggest that flow in the core is governed by a balance between Lorentz force, rotational force, and buoyancy (called MAC balance for Magnetic, Archimedean, Coriolis) with only minute roles for viscous and inertial forces, dynamo simulations must use viscosity values that are many orders of magnitude larger than in the core, due to computational constraints. In typical geodynamo models, viscous and inertial forces are not much smaller than the Coriolis force, and the Lorentz force plays a subdominant role; this has led to conclusions that these simulations are viscously controlled and do not represent the physics of the geodynamo. Here we show, by a direct analysis of the relevant forces, that a MAC balance can be achieved when the viscosity is reduced to values close to the current practical limit. Lorentz force, buoyancy, and the uncompensated (by pressure) part of the Coriolis force are of very similar strength, whereas viscous and inertial forces are smaller by a factor of at least 20 in the bulk of the fluid volume. Compared with nonmagnetic convection at otherwise identical parameters, the dynamo flow is of larger scale and is less invariant parallel to the rotation axis (less geostrophic), and convection transports twice as much heat, all of which is expected when the Lorentz force strongly influences the convection properties. PMID:27790991

Energy and variance budgets of a diffusive staircase with implications for heat flux scaling

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hieronymus, M.; Carpenter, J. R.

2016-02-01

Diffusive convection, the mode of double-diffusive convection that occur when both temperature and salinity increase with increasing depth, is commonplace throughout the high latitude oceans and diffusive staircases constitute an important heat transport process in the Arctic Ocean. Heat and buoyancy fluxes through these staircases are often estimated using flux laws deduced either from laboratory experiments, or from simplified energy or variance budgets. We have done direct numerical simulations of double-diffusive convection at a range of Rayleigh numbers and quantified the energy and variance budgets in detail. This allows us to compare the fluxes in our simulations to those derived using known flux laws and to quantify how well the simplified energy and variance budgets approximate the full budgets. The fluxes are found to agree well with earlier estimates at high Rayleigh numbers, but we find large deviations at low Rayleigh numbers. The close ties between the heat and buoyancy fluxes and the budgets of thermal variance and energy have been utilized to derive heat flux scaling laws in the field of thermal convection. The result is the so called GL-theory, which has been found to give accurate heat flux scaling laws in a very wide parameter range. Diffusive convection has many similarities to thermal convection and an extension of the GL-theory to diffusive convection is also presented and its predictions are compared to the results from our numerical simulations.

Determination of Momentum Flux Using a Bivane and Cup Anemometer

DTIC Science & Technology

1992-12-01

race. In many situations, these transfers have a direct impact on the statc of the atmosphere as well as on plant and animal life . One specific...explanatory. The middle region is the buoyancy subrange, where the slope approaches -2.0. A gap is usually detected after the buoyancy subrange...However, a delicate balance must be reached, as over- filtering distorts the slope in this region. 138 6.2.1. Horizontal Wind Component The power

Wave Propagation Around Coronal Structures: Stratification, Buoyancy, Small Scale Formation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Tomlinson, S. M.; Rappazzo, F.; Velli, M.

2017-12-01

We study the propagation of waves in a coronal medium characterized by stratification and structure in density. temperature and magnetic field. It is well known that average gradients affect the propagation of Alfvén and other MHD waves via reflection, phase mixing, resonant absorption and other coupling phenomena. Here we discuss how the interplay of propagation on inhomogeneous, stratified structures with nonlinear interactions may lead to interesting effects including preferential heating, buoyancy, and plasma acceleration.

Chemical Reactions in Turbulent Mixing Flows

DTIC Science & Technology

1991-09-14

explored Reynolds number effects on turbulent flame length and the influence of buoyancy on turbulent jet flames; 2. completion of a thesis entitled...the dependence of flame length on Reynolds number was begun, and the issue of buoyancy was investigated. L._Lw~ Pt-lO%Rh 2 ൡ g rn wire Flame L ZoneY...105. The flame length at a given Reynolds number was determined from the time-averaged, line- integrated temperature measurements performed by the cold

Exercise Equipment: Neutral Buoyancy

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Shackelford, Linda; Valle, Paul

2016-01-01

Load Bearing Equipment for Neutral Buoyancy (LBE-NB) is an exercise frame that holds two exercising subjects in position as they apply counter forces to each other for lower extremity and spine loading resistance exercises. Resistance exercise prevents bone loss on ISS, but the ISS equipment is too massive for use in exploration craft. Integrating the human into the load directing, load generating, and motion control functions of the exercise equipment generates safe exercise loads with less equipment mass and volume.

Wind effect on diurnal thermally driven flow in vegetated nearshore of a lake

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lin, Y. T.

2014-12-01

In this study, a highly idealized model is developed to discuss the interplay of diurnal heating/cooling induced buoyancy and wind stress on thermally driven flow over a vegetated slope. Since the model is linear, the horizontal velocity components can be broken into buoyancy-driven and surface wind-driven parts. Due to the presence of rooted emergent vegetation, the circulation strength even under the surface wind condition is still significantly reduced, and the transient (adjustment) stage for the initial conditions is shorter than that without vegetation. The flow in shallows is dominated by a viscosity/buoyancy balance as the case without wind, while the effect of wind stress is limited to the upper layer in deep water. In the lower layer of deep regions, vegetative drag is prevailing except the near bottom regions, where viscosity dominates. Under the unidirectional wind condition, a critical dimensionless shear stress to stop the induced flow can be found and is a function of horizontal location . For the periodic wind condition, if the two forcing mechanisms work in concert, the circulation magnitude can be increased. For the case where buoyancy and wind shear stress act against each other, the circulation strength is reduced and its structure becomes more complex. However, the flow magnitudes near the bottom for and are comparable because surface wind almost has no influence.

Transient effects of sudden changes of heat load in a naturally ventilated room

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Caulfield, C. P.; Bower, D. J.; Fitzgerald, S.; Woods, A. W.

2006-11-01

Using reduced numerical models and small-scale laboratory experiments, we investigate the transient effects of changing isolated heat loads discontinuously within a large, ventilated space. We consider the emptying filling box (with high and low openings) driven by a single isolated source of buoyancy. The original steady state consists of a buoyant layer, whose depth (for the simplest case of a point source plume) is determined by the geometric properties of the room alone. When the buoyancy flux of the source is increased, a new layer `fills' the room from the top with a more buoyant layer. The original layer disappears due to entrainment by the rising plume. The behaviour is qualitatively different when the source buoyancy flux is decreased. In this case, the rising plume fluid is now relatively dense, and so it inevitably collapses back to `intrude' below the original layer. In this case, the original layer disappears due to both draining through the upper opening, and penetrative entrainment by the dense plume. We compare the predictions of three numerical models using different penetrative entrainment parametrizations to a sequence of laboratory experiments. This entrainment reduces the density of the intruding layer, and so the rising plume eventually stalls, and no longer reaches the (draining) original layer. We demonstrate that it is necessary to consider the transient effects of penetrative entrainment when the reduction in source buoyancy flux is sufficiently small.

Force of resistance to pipeline pulling in plane and volumetrically curved wells

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Toropov, V. S.; Toropov, S. Yu; Toropov, E. S.

2018-05-01

A method has been developed for calculating the component of the pulling force of a pipeline, arising from the well curvature in one or several planes, with the assumption that the pipeline is ballasted by filling with water or otherwise until zero buoyancy in the drilling mud is reached. This paper shows that when calculating this force, one can neglect the effect of sections with zero curvature. In the other case, if buoyancy of the pipeline is other than zero, the resistance force in the curvilinear sections should be calculated taking into account the difference between the normal components of the buoyancy force and weight. In the paper, it is proved that without taking into account resistance forces from the viscosity of the drilling mud, if buoyancy of the pipeline is zero, the total resistance force is independent of the length of the pipe and is determined by the angle equal to the sum of the entry angle and the exit angle of the pipeline to the day surface. For the case of the well curvature in several planes, it is proposed to perform the calculation of such volumetrically curved well by the central angle of the well profile. Analytical dependences are obtained that allow calculating the pulling force for well profiles with a variable curvature radius, i.e. at different angles of deviation between the drill pipes along the well profile.

Buoyancy-corrected gravimetric analysis of lightly loaded filters.

PubMed

Rasmussen, Pat E; Gardner, H David; Niu, Jianjun

2010-09-01

Numerous sources of uncertainty are associated with the gravimetric analysis of lightly loaded air filter samples (< 100 microg). The purpose of the study presented here is to investigate the effectiveness and limitations of air buoyancy corrections over experimentally adjusted conditions of temperature (21-25 degrees C) and relative humidity (RH) (16-60% RH). Conditioning (24 hr) and weighing were performed inside the Archimedes M3 environmentally controlled chamber. The measurements were performed using 20 size-fractionated samples of resuspended house dust loaded onto Teflo (PTFE) filters using a Micro-Orifice Uniform Deposit Impactor representing a wide range of mass loading (7.2-3130 microg) and cut sizes (0.056-9.9 microm). By maintaining tight controls on humidity (within 0.5% RH of control setting) throughout pre- and postweighing at each stepwise increase in RH, it was possible to quantify error due to water absorption: 45% of the total mass change due to water absorption occurred between 16 and 50% RH, and 55% occurred between 50 and 60% RH. The buoyancy corrections ranged from -3.5 to +5.8 microg in magnitude and improved relative standard deviation (RSD) from 21.3% (uncorrected) to 5.6% (corrected) for a 7.2 microg sample. It is recommended that protocols for weighing low-mass particle samples (e.g., nanoparticle samples) should include buoyancy corrections and tight temperature/humidity controls. In some cases, conditioning times longer than 24 hr may be warranted.

Prominence Bubbles and Plumes: Thermo-magnetic Buoyancy in Coronal Cavity Systems

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Berger, Thomas; Hurlburt, N.

2009-05-01

The Hinode/Solar Optical Telescope continues to produce high spatial and temporal resolution images of solar prominences in both the Ca II 396.8 nm H-line and the H-alpha 656.3 nm line. Time series of these images show that many quiescent prominences produce large scale (50 Mm) dark "bubbles" that "inflate" into, and sometimes burst through, the prominence material. In addition, small-scale (2--5 Mm) dark plumes are seen rising into many quiescent prominences. We show typical examples of both phenomena and argue that they originate from the same mechanism: concentrated and heated magnetic flux that rises due to thermal and magnetic buoyancy to equilibrium heights in the prominence/coronal-cavity system. More generally, these bubbles and upflows offer a source of both magnetic flux and mass to the overlying coronal cavity, supporting B.C. Low's theory of CME initiation via steadily increasing magnetic buoyancy breaking through the overlying helmut streamer tension forces. Quiescent prominences are thus seen as the lowermost parts of the larger coronal cavity system, revealing through thermal effects both the cooled downflowing "drainage" from the cavity and the heated upflowing magnetic "plasmoids" supplying the cavity. We compare SOT movies to new 3D compressible MHD simulations that reproduce the dark turbulent plume dynamics to establish the magnetic and thermal character of these buoyancy-driven flows into the corona.

Buoyancy-driven mean flow in a long channel with a hydraulically constrained exit condition

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Grimm, Th.; Maxworthy, T.

1999-11-01

Convection plays a major role in a variety of natural hydrodynamic systems. Those in which convection drives exchange flows through a lateral contraction and/or over a sill form a special class with typical examples being the Red and Mediterranean Seas, the Persian Gulf, and the fjords that indent many coastlines. The present work focuses on the spatial distribution and scaling of the density difference between the inflowing and outflowing fluid layers. Using a long water-filled channel, fitted with buoyancy sources at its upper surface, experiments were conducted to investigate the influence of the geometry of the strait and the channel as well as the magnitude of the buoyancy flux. Two different scaling laws, one by Phillips (1966), and one by Maxworthy (1994, 1997) were compared with the experimental results. It has been shown that a scaling law for which g[prime prime or minute] = kB02/3x/h4/3 best describes the distribution of the observed density difference along the channel, where B0 is the buoyancy flux, x the distance from the closed end of the channel, h its height at the open end (sill) and k a constant that depends on the details of the channel geometry and flow conditions. This result holds for the experimental results and appears to be valid for a number of natural systems as well.

Inertial effects on thermochemically driven convection and hydromagnetic dynamos in a spherical shell

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Šimkanin, Ján; Kyselica, Juraj; Guba, Peter

2018-03-01

We investigate the thermochemical convection and hydromagnetic dynamos in a spherical shell using the so-called codensity formulation with different buoyancy sources: the secular cooling from the mantle, the buoyancy sources due to the solidification at the inner core boundary and the combination of the two sources. Numerical simulations of the fully non-linear problem are performed using the PARODY code. In the thermochemical regime, we find that when the Prandtl numbers are lower than Ekman numbers, inertial convection is preferred, while the large-scale columnar convection is preferred otherwise. Unlike the large-scale convection, the inertial convection is found to be almost independent of the nature of driving buoyancy source. Moreover, the codensity field evolves to a new, radially symmetric stationary state. At the Ekman numbers much smaller than the Prandtl numbers, we have obtained the westward equatorial zonal flow in the chemically driven regime, while for the other cases zonal flows are eastward near the equator. In the dynamo regime, inertial convection is preferred when the Prandtl numbers are lower than Ekman numbers and the generated dipolar magnetic fields oscillate from the polar region to the mid-latitudes and back. In this case, the generated magnetic fields are independent of the type of buoyancy source. At the Prandtl numbers greater than Ekman numbers, both dipolar and hemispherical dynamos are found.

Thermal buoyancy on magneto hydrodynamic flow over a vertical saturated porous surface with viscous dissipation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Nirmala, P. H.; Saila Kumari, A.; Raju, C. S. K.

2018-04-01

In the present article, we studied the magnetohydro dynamic flow induced heat transfer from vertical surface embedded in a saturated porous medium in the presence of viscous dissipation. Appropriate similarity transformations are used to transmute the non-linear governing partial differential equations to non-linear ODE. To solve these ordinary differential equations (ODE) we used the well-known integral method of Von Karman type. A comparison has been done and originates to be in suitable agreement with the previous published results. The tabulated and graphical results are given to consider the physical nature of the problem. From this results we found that the magnetic field parameter depreciate the velocity profiles and improves the heat transfer rate of the flow.

NONLINEAR AND FIBER OPTICS: Thermal self-interaction of laser beams in water within the anomalous density range

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Gribova, E. Z.; Sorokin, Yu M.

1990-04-01

A theoretical model is proposed in order to account for the temperature dependence of the refractive index of water in the range of parameters not far from the crystallization point. It is shown that the thermal self-interaction results in defocusing in supercooled water and in the temperature range of the anomalous density. Penetrating self-convection is predicted and confirmed experimentally for this case: this is manifested by a local change of the sign of the buoyancy forces in the region occupied by a laser beam. The possibility of suppression of such self-convection and enhancement of symmetric nonlinear refraction effects near an extremum of the density of water is also predicted and demonstrated experimentally.

Realistic Solar Surface Convection Simulations

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Stein, Robert F.; Nordlund, Ake

2000-01-01

We perform essentially parameter free simulations with realistic physics of convection near the solar surface. We summarize the physics that is included and compare the simulation results with observations. Excellent agreement is obtained for the depth of the convection zone, the p-mode frequencies, the p-mode excitation rate, the distribution of the emergent continuum intensity, and the profiles of weak photospheric lines. We describe how solar convection is nonlocal. It is driven from a thin surface thermal boundary layer where radiative cooling produces low entropy gas which forms the cores of the downdrafts in which most of the buoyancy work occurs. We show that turbulence and vorticity are mostly confined to the intergranular lanes and underlying downdrafts. Finally, we illustrate our current work on magneto-convection.

Experiments on Thermal Convection in Rotating Spherical Shells With Radial Gravity: The Geophysical Fluid Flow Cell

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Hart, John E.

1996-01-01

Experiments designed to study the fluid dynamics of buoyancy driven circulations in rotating spherical shells were conducted on the United States Microgravity Laboratory 2 spacelab mission. These experiments address several aspects of prototypical global convection relevant to large scale motions on the Sun, Earth, and on the giant planets. The key feature is the consistent modeling of radially directed gravity in spherical geometry by using dielectric polarization forces. Imagery of the planforms of thermally driven flows for rapidly-rotating regimes shows an initial separation and eventual merger of equatorial and polar convection as the heating (i.e. the Rayleigh number) is increased. At low rotation rates, multiple-states of motion for the same external parameters were observed.

High diving metabolic rate indicated by high-speed transit to depth in negatively buoyant long-finned pilot whales.

PubMed

Aoki, Kagari; Sato, Katsufumi; Isojunno, Saana; Narazaki, Tomoko; Miller, Patrick J O

2017-10-15

To maximize foraging duration at depth, diving mammals are expected to use the lowest cost optimal speed during descent and ascent transit and to minimize the cost of transport by achieving neutral buoyancy. Here, we outfitted 18 deep-diving long-finned pilot whales with multi-sensor data loggers and found indications that their diving strategy is associated with higher costs than those of other deep-diving toothed whales . Theoretical models predict that optimal speed is proportional to (basal metabolic rate/drag) 1/3 and therefore to body mass 0.05 The transit speed of tagged animals (2.7±0.3 m s -1 ) was substantially higher than the optimal speed predicted from body mass (1.4-1.7 m s -1 ). According to the theoretical models, this choice of high transit speed, given a similar drag coefficient (median, 0.0035) to that in other cetaceans, indicated greater basal metabolic costs during diving than for other cetaceans. This could explain the comparatively short duration (8.9±1.5 min) of their deep dives (maximum depth, 444±85 m). Hydrodynamic gliding models indicated negative buoyancy of tissue body density (1038.8±1.6 kg m -3 , ±95% credible interval, CI) and similar diving gas volume (34.6±0.6 ml kg -1 , ±95% CI) to those in other deep-diving toothed whales. High diving metabolic rate and costly negative buoyancy imply a 'spend more, gain more' strategy of long-finned pilot whales, differing from that in other deep-diving toothed whales, which limits the costs of locomotion during foraging. We also found that net buoyancy affected the optimal speed: high transit speeds gradually decreased during ascent as the whales approached neutral buoyancy owing to gas expansion. © 2017. Published by The Company of Biologists Ltd.

The role of Southern Ocean mixing and upwelling in glacial-interglacial atmospheric CO2 change

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Watson, Andrew J.; Naveira Garabato, Alberto C.

2006-02-01

Decreased ventilation of the Southern Ocean in glacial time is implicated in most explanations of lower glacial atmospheric CO2. Today, the deep (>2000 m) ocean south of the Polar Front is rapidly ventilated from below, with the interaction of deep currents with topography driving high mixing rates well up into the water column. We show from a buoyancy budget that mixing rates are high in all the deep waters of the Southern Ocean. Between the surface and ~2000 m depth, water is upwelled by a residual meridional overturning that is directly linked to buoyancy fluxes through the ocean surface. Combined with the rapid deep mixing, this upwelling serves to return deep water to the surface on a short time scale. We propose two new mechanisms by which, in glacial time, the deep Southern Ocean may have been more isolated from the surface. Firstly, the deep ocean appears to have been more stratified because of denser bottom water resulting from intense sea ice formation near Antarctica. The greater stratification would have slowed the deep mixing. Secondly, subzero atmospheric temperatures may have meant that the present-day buoyancy flux from the atmosphere to the ocean surface was reduced or reversed. This in turn would have reduced or eliminated the upwelling (contrary to a common assumption, upwelling is not solely a function of the wind stress but is coupled to the air-sea buoyancy flux too). The observed very close link between Antarctic temperatures and atmospheric CO2 could then be explained as a natural consequence of the connection between the air-sea buoyancy flux and upwelling in the Southern Ocean, if slower ventilation of the Southern Ocean led to lower atmospheric CO2. Here we use a box model, similar to those of previous authors, to show that weaker mixing and reduced upwelling in the Southern Ocean can explain the low glacial atmospheric CO2 in such a formulation.

Macro-Fiber Composite Based Transduction

DTIC Science & Technology

2016-03-01

displacements, resonance frequencies, and acoustic performance. In addition to the experimental work, ATILA++ finite element models were developed and...done free flooded and with a simulated air backing made from a foam core (a weight was suspended below the device for negative buoyancy). Figure 13 and...Layer Ring -- 80000 100.000 100000 ~ Figure 15 shows the TVR and phase of the MFC cylinder in-water with an air backing ( foam core). The wide

Preparation and evaluation of novel metronidazole sustained release and floating matrix tablets.

PubMed

Asnaashari, Solmaz; Khoei, Nazaninossadat Seyed; Zarrintan, Mohammad Hosein; Adibkia, Khosro; Javadzadeh, Yousef

2011-08-01

In the present study, metronidazole was used for preparing floating dosage forms that are designed to retain in the stomach for a long time and have developed as a drug delivery system for better eradication of Helicobacter Pylori in peptic ulcer diseases. For this means, various formulations were designed using multi-factorial design. HPMC, psyllium and carbopol in different concentrations were used as floating agents, and sodium bicarbonate was added as a gas-forming agent. Hardness, friability, drug loading, floating ability and release profiles as well as kinetics of release were assessed. Formulations containing HPMC as filler showed prolonged lag times for buoyancy. Adding psyllium to these formulations had reduced relative lag times. Overall, selected formulations were able to float immediately and showed buoyancy for at least 8?h. Meanwhile, sustained profiles of drug release were also obtained. Kinetically, among the 10 assessed models, the release pattern of metronidazole from the tablets fitted best to Power law, Weibull and Higuchi models in respect overall to mean percentage error values of 3.8, 4.73 and 5.77, respectively, for calcium carbonate-based tablets and, 2.95, 6.39 and 3.9, respectively, for calcium silicate-based tablets. In general, these systems can float in the gastric condition and control the drug release from the tablets.

DOE Office of Scientific and Technical Information (OSTI.GOV)

McHugh, P.R.; Ramshaw, J.D.

MAGMA is a FORTRAN computer code designed to viscous flow in in situ vitrification melt pools. It models three-dimensional, incompressible, viscous flow and heat transfer. The momentum equation is coupled to the temperature field through the buoyancy force terms arising from the Boussinesq approximation. All fluid properties, except density, are assumed variable. Density is assumed constant except in the buoyancy force terms in the momentum equation. A simple melting model based on the enthalpy method allows the study of the melt front progression and latent heat effects. An indirect addressing scheme used in the numerical solution of the momentum equationmore » voids unnecessary calculations in cells devoid of liquid. Two-dimensional calculations can be performed using either rectangular or cylindrical coordinates, while three-dimensional calculations use rectangular coordinates. All derivatives are approximated by finite differences. The incompressible Navier-Stokes equations are solved using a new fully implicit iterative technique, while the energy equation is differenced explicitly in time. Spatial derivatives are written in conservative form using a uniform, rectangular, staggered mesh based on the marker and cell placement of variables. Convective terms are differenced using a weighted average of centered and donor cell differencing to ensure numerical stability. Complete descriptions of MAGMA governing equations, numerics, code structure, and code verification are provided. 14 refs.« less

Neutral buoyancy testing of architectural and environmental concepts of space vehicle design

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Lenda, J. A.; Rosener, A. A.; Stephenson, M. L.

1972-01-01

Design guidelines are presented that are applicable to providing habitability areas and furniture elements for extended periods in a zero gravity environment. This was accomplished by: (1) analyzing the existing habitability crew area requirements, mobility and restraint aids, cross-cultural design, and establishing a man model for zero gravity; (2) designing specific furniture elements, chair and table, and volumes for a stateroom, office, bathroom, galley, and wardroom; and (3) neutral buoyancy testing and evaluation of these areas.

Generation of large-scale density fluctuations by buoyancy

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Chasnov, J. R.; Rogallo, R. S.

1990-01-01

The generation of fluid motion from a state of rest by buoyancy forces acting on a homogeneous isotropic small-scale density field is considered. Nonlinear interactions between the generated fluid motion and the initial isotropic small-scale density field are found to create an anisotropic large-scale density field with spectrum proportional to kappa(exp 4). This large-scale density field is observed to result in an increasing Reynolds number of the fluid turbulence in its final period of decay.

Mars aerobrake assembly simulation

NASA Technical Reports Server (NTRS)

Filatovs, G. J.; Lee, Gordon K. F.; Garvey, John

1992-01-01

On-orbit assembly operation simulations in neutral buoyancy conditions are presently undertaken by a partial/full-scale Mars mission aerobrake mockup, whose design, conducted in the framework of an engineering senior students' design project, involved several levels of constraints for critical physical and operational features. Allowances had to be made for the auxiliary constraints introduced by underwater testing, as well as the subsegmenting required for overland shipment to the neutral-buoyancy testing facility. This mockup aerobrake's fidelity is determined by the numerous, competing design objectives.

A New Approach for 3D Ocean Reconstruction from Limited Observations

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Xiao, X.

2014-12-01

Satellites can measure ocean surface height and temperature with sufficient spatial and temporal resolution to capture mesoscale features across the globe. Measurements of the ocean's interior, however, remain sparse and irregular, thus the dynamical inference of subsurface flows is necessary to interpret surface measurements. The most common (and accurate) approach is to incorporate surface measurements into a data-assimilating forward ocean model, but this approach is expensive and slow, and thus completely impractical for time-critical needs, such as offering guidance to ship-based observational campaigns. Two recently-developed approaches have made use of the apparent partial consistency of upper ocean dynamics with quasigeostrophic flows that take into account surface buoyancy gradients (i.e. the "surface quasigeostrophic" (SQG) model) to "reconstruct" the interior flow from knowledge of surface height and buoyancy. Here we improve on these methods in three ways: (1) we adopt a modal decomposition that represents the surface and interior dynamics in an efficient way, allowing the separation of surface energy from total energy; (2) we make use of instantaneous vertical profile observations (e.g. from ARGO data) to improve the reconstruction of eddy variables at depth; and (3) we use advanced statistical methods to choose the optimal modes for the reconstruction. The method is tested using a series of high horizontal and vertical resolution quasigeostrophic simulation, with a wide range of surface buoyancy and interior potential vorticity gradient combinations. In addtion, we apply the method to output from a very high resolution primitive equation simulation of a forced and dissipated baroclinic front in a channel. Our new method is systematically compared to the existing methods as well. Its advantages and limitations will be discussed.

Analysis of the strength of sea gas pipelines of positive buoyancy conditioned by glaciation

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Malkov, Venyamin; Kurbatova, Galina; Ermolaeva, Nadezhda; Malkova, Yulia; Petrukhin, Ruslan

2018-05-01

A technique for estimating the stress state of a gas pipeline laid along the seabed in northern latitudes in the presence of glaciation is proposed. It is assumed that the pipeline lies on the bottom of the seabed, but under certain conditions on the some part of the pipeline a glaciation is formed and the gas pipeline section in the place of glaciation can come off the ground due to the positive buoyancy of the ice. Calculation of additional stresses caused by bending of the pipeline is of practical interest for strength evaluation. The gas pipeline is a two-layer cylindrical shell of circular cross section. The inner layer is made of high-strength steel, the outer layer is made of reinforced ferroconcrete. The proposed methodology for calculating the gas pipeline for strength is based on the equations of the theory of shells. The procedure takes into account the effect of internal gas pressure, external pressure of sea water, the weight of two-layer gas pipeline and the weight of the ice layer. The lifting force created by the displaced fluid and the positive buoyancy of the ice is also taken into account. It is significant that the listed loads cause only two types of deformation of the gas pipeline: axisymmetric and antisymmetric. The interaction of the pipeline with the ground as an elastic foundation is not considered. The main objective of the research is to establish the fact of separation of part of the pipeline from the ground. The method of calculations of stresses and deformations occurring in a model sea gas pipeline is presented.

Water-Column Stratification Observed along an AUV-Tracked Isotherm

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Zhang, Y.; Messié, M.; Ryan, J. P.; Kieft, B.; Stanway, M. J.; Hobson, B.; O'Reilly, T. C.; Raanan, B. Y.; Smith, J. M.; Chavez, F.

2016-02-01

Studies of marine physical, chemical and microbiological processes benefit from observing in a Lagrangian frame of reference, i.e. drifting with ambient water. Because these processes can be organized relative to specific density or temperature ranges, maintaining observing platforms within targeted environmental ranges is an important observing strategy. We have developed a novel method to enable a Tethys-class long-range autonomous underwater vehicle (AUV) (which has a propeller and a buoyancy engine) to track a target isotherm in buoyancy-controlled drift mode. In this mode, the vehicle shuts off its propeller and autonomously detects the isotherm and stays with it by actively controlling the vehicle's buoyancy. In the June 2015 CANON (Controlled, Agile, and Novel Observing Network) Experiment in Monterey Bay, California, AUV Makai tracked a target isotherm for 13 hours to study the coastal upwelling system. The tracked isotherm started from 33 m depth, shoaled to 10 m, and then deepened to 29 m. The thickness of the tracked isotherm layer (within 0.3°C error from the target temperature) increased over this duration, reflecting weakened stratification around the isotherm. During Makai's isotherm tracking, another long-range AUV, Daphne, acoustically tracked Makai on a circular yo-yo trajectory, measuring water-column profiles in Makai's vicinity. A wave glider also acoustically tracked Makai, providing sea surface measurements on the track. The presented method is a new approach for studying water-column stratification, but requires careful analysis of the temporal and spatial variations mingled in the vehicles' measurements. We will present a synthesis of the water column's stratification in relation to the upwelling conditions, based on the in situ measurements by the mobile platforms, as well as remote sensing and mooring data.

Revisiting Hotspots and Mantle Plumes: Some Phenomenology

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

King, S. D.; White-Gaynor, A. L.

2012-12-01

Sleep (1990) used gravity, topography and heat flow from 37 hotspots to ``constrain the mechanism for swell uplift and to obtain fluxes and excess temperatures of mantle plumes,'' complementing a previous analysis by Davies (1988). We repeat that analysis for the same 37 hotspots using gravity from EGM2008 and topography from ETOPO1 (Amante and Eakins, 2009). EGM2008 is complete to spherical harmonic degree and order 2159, or roughly 20 km spatial resolution (Pavlis et al., 2012). The vertical accuracy of ETOPO1 is on the order of 10 meters. With these new models we hope to improve the uplift and subsidence rates along all 37 hotspot tracks--one of the major limitations the previous work. For example, of the 37 hotspots considered Sleep ranked only 7 with good reliability while 14 were fair and 16 were poor. With this new information we can compare and contrast hotspots with various other groupings of hotspots based on tomographic images of mantle structure (Montelli et al, 2003), primary versus secondary hotspots (Courtillot et al., 2003) or relationship to cratonic boundaries (King, 2008). One encounters some puzzles when attempting to reconcile buoyancy fluxes with other groupings of hotspots and/or observations. For example, Coutillot et al.'s seven primary hotspots include: Afar, Easter, Hawaii, Iceland, Louisville, Réunion, and Tristan. Sleep (1990) categorized the reliability of the buoyancy flux calculated by from Afar, Hawaii, Iceland, and Réunion as good, while Tristan and Easter were fair and Louisville was poor. The calculated buoyancy fluxes from Macdonald and Marqueses (both listed as fair) are twice as large as those from Iceland, Tristan, and Réunion. While we recognize that these observations cannot uniquely constrain the origin of these anomalies, better observations should help test various hypotheses.

Hybrid upwind discretization of nonlinear two-phase flow with gravity

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Lee, S. H.; Efendiev, Y.; Tchelepi, H. A.

2015-08-01

Multiphase flow in porous media is described by coupled nonlinear mass conservation laws. For immiscible Darcy flow of multiple fluid phases, whereby capillary effects are negligible, the transport equations in the presence of viscous and buoyancy forces are highly nonlinear and hyperbolic. Numerical simulation of multiphase flow processes in heterogeneous formations requires the development of discretization and solution schemes that are able to handle the complex nonlinear dynamics, especially of the saturation evolution, in a reliable and computationally efficient manner. In reservoir simulation practice, single-point upwinding of the flux across an interface between two control volumes (cells) is performed for each fluid phase, whereby the upstream direction is based on the gradient of the phase-potential (pressure plus gravity head). This upwinding scheme, which we refer to as Phase-Potential Upwinding (PPU), is combined with implicit (backward-Euler) time discretization to obtain a Fully Implicit Method (FIM). Even though FIM suffers from numerical dispersion effects, it is widely used in practice. This is because of its unconditional stability and because it yields conservative, monotone numerical solutions. However, FIM is not unconditionally convergent. The convergence difficulties are particularly pronounced when the different immiscible fluid phases switch between co-current and counter-current states as a function of time, or (Newton) iteration. Whether the multiphase flow across an interface (between two control-volumes) is co-current, or counter-current, depends on the local balance between the viscous and buoyancy forces, and how the balance evolves in time. The sensitivity of PPU to small changes in the (local) pressure distribution exacerbates the problem. The common strategy to deal with these difficulties is to cut the timestep and try again. Here, we propose a Hybrid-Upwinding (HU) scheme for the phase fluxes, then HU is combined with implicit time discretization to yield a fully implicit method. In the HU scheme, the phase flux is divided into two parts based on the driving force. The viscous-driven and buoyancy-driven phase fluxes are upwinded differently. Specifically, the viscous flux, which is always co-current, is upwinded based on the direction of the total-velocity. The buoyancy-driven flux across an interface is always counter-current and is upwinded such that the heavier fluid goes downward and the lighter fluid goes upward. We analyze the properties of the Implicit Hybrid Upwinding (IHU) scheme. It is shown that IHU is locally conservative and produces monotone, physically-consistent numerical solutions. The IHU solutions show numerical diffusion levels that are slightly higher than those for standard FIM (i.e., implicit PPU). The primary advantage of the IHU scheme is that the numerical overall-flux of a fluid phase remains continuous and differentiable as the flow regime changes between co-current and counter-current conditions. This is in contrast to the standard phase-potential upwinding scheme, in which the overall fractional-flow (flux) function is non-differentiable across the boundary between co-current and counter-current flows.

Acute and physical effects of water-based drilling mud in the marine copepod Calanus finmarchicus.

PubMed

Farkas, Julia; Yvonne Bådsvik, Camilla; Altin, Dag; Nordtug, Trond; Olsen, Anders Johny; Hansen, Bjørn Henrik

2017-01-01

The aim of this study was to investigate impacts of fine particulate fraction of a commonly used barite-containing drilling mud on the pelagic filter feeding copepod Calanus finmarchicus. The results show that the tested drilling mud had a low acute toxicity on C. finmarchicus (LC50 > 320 mg/L) and that the observed toxicity was likely caused by dissolved constituents in the mud and not the particle phase containing the weighting agent barite. Further, animals were exposed to drilling mud at a concentration of 10 mg/L for 168 hr followed by a 100 hr recovery phase. A rapid uptake of drilling mud particles was observed, while the excretion was slow and incomplete even after 100 hr recovery in clean seawater. The uptake of drilling mud particles caused a significant increase in sinking velocity of copepods, indicating that uptake of drilling mud particles affected their buoyancy. Long-term exposure to low concentrations of drilling mud could therefore cause physical effects such as impacts on the animal's buoyancy which may affect the energy budget of the copepods.

To increase size or decrease density? Different Microcystis species has different choice to form blooms.

PubMed

Li, Ming; Zhu, Wei; Guo, Lili; Hu, Jing; Chen, Huaimin; Xiao, Man

2016-11-14

The buoyancy of Microcystis colonies is a principal factor determining blooms occurrence but the knowledge of seasonal variation in buoyancy is quite poor because of challenge in analysis method. In this study, a method based on the Stokes' Law after researching on the effects of shapes on settling velocity of Microcystis colonies, whose gas vesicles were collapsed, to accurately measure density was established. The method was used in Lake Taihu. From January to May, mean density of Microcystis colonies decreased from 995 kg m -3 to 978 kg m -3 and then increased to 992 kg m -3 in December. The density of colonies in different Microcystis species was in the order M. wesenbergii > M. aeruginosa > M. ichthyoblabe. For all the Microcystis species, the density of colonies with gas vasicles increased significantly along with the increase of colony size. Our results suggested that the main driving factor of Microcystis blooms formation in Lake Taihu was low density for M. ichthyoblabe from May to July but was large colony size for M. wesenbergii and M. aeruginosa from August to October.

An analysis of a mixed convection associated with thermal heating in contaminated porous media.

PubMed

Krol, Magdalena M; Johnson, Richard L; Sleep, Brent E

2014-11-15

The occurrence of subsurface buoyant flow during thermal remediation was investigated using a two dimensional electro-thermal model (ETM). The model incorporated electrical current flow associated with electrical resistance heating, energy and mass transport, and density dependent water flow. The model was used to examine the effects of heating on sixteen subsurface scenarios with different applied groundwater fluxes and soil permeabilities. The results were analyzed in terms of the ratio of Rayleigh to thermal Peclet numbers (the buoyancy ratio). It was found that when the buoyancy number was greater than unity and the soil permeability greater than 10(-12) m(2), buoyant flow and contaminant transport were significant. The effects of low permeability layers and electrode placement on heat and mass transport were also investigated. Heating under a clay layer led to flow stagnation zones resulting in the accumulation of contaminant mass and transport into the low permeability layer. The results of this study can be used to develop dimensionless number-based guidelines for site management during subsurface thermal activities. Copyright © 2014 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.

A priori testing of subgrid-scale models for large-eddy simulation of the atmospheric boundary layer

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Juneja, Anurag; Brasseur, James G.

1996-11-01

Subgrid-scale models are generally developed assuming homogeneous isotropic turbulence with the filter cutoff lying in the inertial range. In the surface layer and capping inversion regions of the atmospheric boundary layer, the turbulence is strongly anisotropic and, in general, influenced by both buoyancy and shear. Furthermore, the integral scale motions are under-resolved in these regions. Herein we perform direct numerical simulations of shear and buoyancy-generated homogeneous anisotropic turbulence to compute and analyze the actual subgrid-resolved-scale (SGS-RS) dynamics as the filter cutoff moves into the energy-containing scales. These are compared with the SGS-RS dynamics predicted by Smagorinsky-based models with a focus on motivating improved closures. We find that, in general, the underlying assumption of such models, that the anisotropic part of the subgrid stress tensor be aligned with the resolved strain rate tensor, is a poor approximation. Similarly, we find poor alignment between the actual and predicted stress divergence, and find low correlations between the actual and modeled subgrid-scale contribution to the pressure and pressure gradient. Details will be given in the talk.

Sensitivity of the overturning circulation of the Baltic Sea to climate change, a numerical experiment

NASA Astrophysics Data System (ADS)

Hordoir, Robinson; Höglund, Anders; Pemberton, Per; Schimanke, Semjon

2018-02-01

An ocean model covering the Baltic Sea area is forced by several climate scenarios for a period extending from 1961 to 2100. The Baltic Sea overturning circulation is then analyzed. The analysis shows that this circulation decreases between the end of the 20th century and the end of the 21st century, and that the decrease is amplified in the case of the strongest greenhouse gas emission scenarios, which corresponds with the highest warming cases. The reasons behind this decrease in overturning circulation are investigated. A strong increase of thermal stratification is noticed at the level of the Baltic Sea mixed layer. Based on buoyancy flux considerations, we demonstrate that the decrease in overturning circulation coincides with the increase of thermal stratification. Evidence shows that the underlying process is linked to a smaller erosion of the halocline due to a higher shielding, itself linked with a stronger and longer seasonal thermocline. This theory works if surface wind mixing is not taken into account directly in the computation of buoyancy fluxes.