Coarsening of vortex ripples in sand

Details Coarsening of vortex ripples in sand Coarsening of vortex ripples in sand

2001-08-28

arxiv.org/abs/cond-mat/0108469v1

Advances in Complex Systems 4, 353 (2001)

Physics

Condensed Matter

Statistical Mechanics

7 pages, 4 figures

Scientific paper

The coarsening of an array of vortex ripples prepared in an unstable state is discussed within the framework of a simple mass transfer model first introduced by K.H. Andersen et al. [Phys. Rev. E 63, 066308 (2001)]. Two scenarios for the selection of the final pattern are identified. When the initial state is homogeneous with uniform random perturbations, a unique final state is reached which depends only on the shape of the interaction function $f(\lambda)$. A potential formulation of the dynamics suggests that the final wavelength is determined by a Maxwell construction applied to $f(\lambda)$, but comparison with numerical simulations shows that this yields only an upper bound. In contrast, the evolution from a perfectly homogeneous state with a localized perturbation proceeds through the propagation of wavelength doubling fronts. The front speed can be predicted by standard marginal stability theory. In this case the final wavelength depends on the initial wavelength in a complicated manner which involves multiplication by factors of 2 and rational ratios such as 4/3.

Affiliated with

Also associated with

No associations

Rating

Coarsening of vortex ripples in sand does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this scientific paper.

If you have personal experience with Coarsening of vortex ripples in sand, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and Coarsening of vortex ripples in sand will most certainly appreciate the feedback.

Rate now

Comments { 0 }

Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-101693