Jupiter atmosphere, turbulence and ocean fluid dynamics

In summary, ocean physics, specifically moist convection, has been found to play a key role in driving cyclones on Jupiter's poles. This was discovered through high-resolution images from the Juno spacecraft and is consistent with idealized studies of rapidly rotating Rayleigh-Bénard convection. This phenomenon is not only important for understanding Jupiter's atmosphere, but also has implications for Earth's dynamics and is widely used in various industrial applications.
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Ocean physics explain cyclones on Jupiter​

https://phys.org/news/2022-01-ocean-physics-cyclones-jupiter.html

Lia Siegelman, a physical oceanographer and postdoctoral scholar at Scripps Institution of Oceanography at the University of California San Diego, decided to pursue the research after noticing that the cyclones at Jupiter's pole seem to share similarities with ocean vortices she studied during her time as a Ph.D. student. Using an array of these images and principles used in geophysical fluid dynamics, Siegelman and colleagues provided evidence for a longtime hypothesis that moist convection—when hotter, less dense air rises—drives these cyclones.

Moist convection drives an upscale energy transfer at Jovian high latitudes​

https://www.nature.com/articles/s41567-021-01458-y

Abstract​

Jupiter’s atmosphere is one of the most turbulent places in the solar system. Whereas observations of lightning and thunderstorms point to moist convection as a small-scale energy source for Jupiter’s large-scale vortices and zonal jets, this has never been demonstrated due to the coarse resolution of pre-Juno measurements. The Juno spacecraft discovered that Jovian high latitudes host a cluster of large cyclones with diameter of around 5,000 km, each associated with intermediate- (roughly between 500 and 1,600 km) and smaller-scale vortices and filaments of around 100 km. Here, we analyse infrared images from Juno with a high resolution of 10 km. We unveil a dynamical regime associated with a significant energy source of convective origin that peaks at 100 km scales and in which energy gets subsequently transferred upscale to the large circumpolar and polar cyclones. Although this energy route has never been observed on another planet, it is surprisingly consistent with idealized studies of rapidly rotating Rayleigh–Bénard convection, lending theoretical support to our analyses. This energy route is expected to enhance the heat transfer from Jupiter’s hot interior to its troposphere and may also be relevant to the Earth’s atmosphere, helping us better understand the dynamics of our own planet.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rayleigh–Bénard_convection

https://www.mis.mpg.de/applan/research/rayleigh.html
 
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Rayleigh–Bénard convection (RBC) is a natural phenomenon in which a horizontal layer of fluid, heated from below and cooled from above, organizes itself into cells of circulating fluid known as convection rolls. This phenomenon is an example of a nonequilibrium thermodynamic system which spontaneously organizes itself into a pattern of regular motion. It has been studied extensively since its discovery by Lord Rayleigh in the late 19th century and is an important part of fluid dynamics. The study of RBC can provide insight into the behavior of different types of fluids and their interactions with external forces. RBC is also important for understanding how heat is transferred in many natural phenomena, such as weather patterns, ocean currents, and volcanic activity. RBC is also used in many industrial applications, such as cooling systems and metalworking processes.
 

FAQ: Jupiter atmosphere, turbulence and ocean fluid dynamics

What is the composition of Jupiter's atmosphere?

Jupiter's atmosphere is primarily composed of hydrogen and helium, with small amounts of methane, ammonia, and water vapor. These gases are constantly swirling and changing due to the planet's strong winds and storms.

How does turbulence affect Jupiter's atmosphere?

Turbulence on Jupiter is caused by the planet's rapid rotation and strong winds, which can reach speeds of up to 600 kilometers per hour. This turbulence leads to the formation of massive storms and cyclones, such as the famous Great Red Spot.

Does Jupiter have an ocean?

While Jupiter does not have a traditional ocean of water, it does have a deep layer of liquid metallic hydrogen beneath its atmosphere. This layer acts like an ocean and is responsible for generating the planet's strong magnetic field.

How does fluid dynamics play a role in Jupiter's atmosphere?

Fluid dynamics refers to the study of how fluids (such as gases and liquids) move and interact with each other. On Jupiter, fluid dynamics plays a crucial role in the formation of atmospheric patterns, such as the planet's colorful bands and zones.

What is the significance of studying Jupiter's atmosphere, turbulence, and ocean fluid dynamics?

Studying these aspects of Jupiter can help us better understand the dynamics of other gas giants in our solar system and beyond. It can also provide insights into the formation and evolution of planets, as well as the potential for habitability on other worlds.

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