Geometric characterization of vortex lines in turbulence

TL;DR

This paper introduces a geometric approach to analyze vortex lines in turbulence, revealing unifying features such as decay patterns, curvature relations, and vortex bundling, advancing understanding of vortex dynamics.

Contribution

It presents a novel method for quantifying vortex line geometries in turbulent flows, linking geometric features to vorticity behavior.

Findings

Decay of high vorticity segments is rapid

Local curvature inversely correlates with vorticity magnitude

Strong vortex segments tend to bundle together

Abstract

Vorticity in turbulent flows is often organized into complex geometries that influence the dynamics. We use a relatively novel approach to describe these geometries: that of obtaining segments of vortex lines embedded in the flow. This enables us to quantify the geometric features of these objects. Vortex lines differ widely in their behaviour but we find some unifying features. The decay from high levels of vorticity is shown to happen over a short fraction of the vortex length. The local curvature is inversely related with the vorticity magnitude. Strong parts of vortex lines bundle together. It is hoped that this first work will generate interest in such quantification and the physics of vortex dynamics in turbulence.