SAIP2012

Mixing Length Theory as a closure model for turbulent convection.

Not scheduled

Oral Presentation Track D1 - Astrophysics

Speakers

Dr Fabio Frescura (U Witwatersrand) Mr Sashin Moonsamy (U Witwatersrand)

Apply to be<br> consider for a student <br> &nbsp; award (Yes / No)?

No

Would you like to <br> submit a short paper <br> for the Conference <br> Proceedings (Yes / No)?

Yes

Abstract content <br> &nbsp; (Max 300 words)

We discuss the origins of Mixing Length Theory (MLT) in the work of Boussinesq on eddy viscosity, and of Prandtl who implemented Boussinesq's suggestions by exploiting an analogy with transport mechanisms in the kinetic theory of gases. This enables us to identify MLT as a closure model for the Reynolds-averaged Navier-Stokes equations. We discuss the shortcomings of this method of closure and propose alternatives which may useful in astrophysical modelling.