Search NASA⌕ Search

SEARCH · Search NASA

Results for “MERIDIONAL FLOW”

Search indexed NASA NTRS and DOE OSTI research on propulsion, heat transfer, battery materials and energy systems. Follow report and document links to the original sources.

Quote a phrase for an exact phrase match. Source license links do not imply unrestricted reuse.

At least 199 records · Page 11
All sourcesNASA NTRSDOE OSTI
NASA NTRS1994

Numerical simulation of baroclinic Jovian vortices

We examine the evolution of baroclinic vortices in a time-dependent, nonlinear numerical model of a Jovian atmosphere. The model uses a normal-mode expansion in the vertical, using the barotropic and first two baroclinic modes. Results for the stability of baroclinic vortices on an f plane in the absence of a mean zonal flow are similar to results of Earth vortex models, although the presence of a fluid interior on the Jovian planets shifts the stability boundaries to smaller length scales. The presence of a barotropic mean zonal flow in the interior stabilizes vortices against instability and significantly modifies the finite amplitude form of baroclinic instabilities. The effect of a zonal flow on a form of barotropic instability produces periodic oscillations in the latitude and longitude of the vortex as observed at the level of the cloud tops. This instability may explain some, but not all, observations of longitudinal oscillations of vortices on the outer planets. Oscillations in aspect ratio and orientation of stable vortices in a zonal shear flow are observed in this baroclinic model, as in simpler two-dimensional models. Such oscillations are also observed in the atmospheres of Jupiter and Neptune. The meridional propagation and decay of vortices on a beta plane is inhibited by the presence of a mean zonal flow. The direction of propagation of a vortex relative to the mean zonal flow depends upon the sign of the meridional potential vorticity gradient; combined with observations of vortex drift rates, this may provide a constraint on model assumption for the flow in the deep interior of the Jovian planets.

Achterberg, Richard K.↗
NASA NTRS1979

Equatorial wave-mean flow interaction - A numerical study of the role of latitudinal shear

A time-dependent primitive equation model for an equatorial channel is used to assess the interaction of equatorial Kelvin and mixed Rossby-gravity waves with the mean flow. The proposed model involves a semiimplicit time-differencing scheme and a finite-difference grid in the meridional plane. It is shown that forced equatorial waves interact with mean flow to produce equatorial jets characterized by downward-moving westerly (Kelvin wave forcing) and easterly (mixed Rossby-gravity wave forcing) shear zones, respectively. For parameters characteristic of the observed waves in the equatorial stratosphere, the wave-mean flow interaction process always reduces the amplitude of any initial cross-equatorial mean wind shear. The mean flow profile tends to become symmetric about the equator as the interaction process continues.

Holton, J. R.↗
NASA NTRS1992

Effects of curvature and rotation on turbulence in the NASA low-speed centrifugal compressor impeller

The flow in the NASA Low-Speed Impeller is affected by both curvature and rotation. The flow curves due to the following: (1) geometric curvature, e.g. the curvature of the hub and shroud profiles in the meridional plane and the curvature of the backswept impeller blades; and (2) secondary flow vortices, e.g. the tip leakage vortex. Changes in the turbulence and effective turbulent viscosity in the impeller are investigated. The effects of these changes on three-dimensional flow development are discussed. Two predictions of the flow in the impeller, one with, and one without modification to the turbulent viscosity due to rotation and curvature, are compared. Some experimental and theoretical background for the modified mixing length model of turbulent viscosity will also be presented.

Moore, Joan G.↗
NASA NTRS1991

An inverse inviscid method for the design of quasi-three dimensional rotating turbomachinery cascades

A new inverse inviscid method suitable for the design of rotating blade sections lying on an arbitrary axisymmetric stream-surface with varying streamtube width is presented. The geometry of the axisymmetric stream-surface and the streamtube width variation with meridional distance, the number of blades, the inlet flow conditions, the rotational speed and the suction and pressure side velocity distributions as functions of the normalized arc-length are given. The flow is considered irrotational in the absolute frame of reference and compressible. The output of the computation is the blade section that satisfies the above data. The method solves the flow equations on a (phi 1, psi) potential function-streamfunction plane for the velocity modulus, W and the flow angle beta; the blade section shape can then be obtained as part of the physical plane geometry by integrating the flow angle distribution along streamlines. The (phi 1, psi) plane is defined so that the monotonic behavior of the potential function is guaranteed, even in cases with high peripheral velocities. The method is validated on a rotating turbine case and used to design new blades. To obtain a closed blade, a set of closure conditions were developed and referred.

Bonataki, E.↗
NASA NTRS1987

Meridional transport of magnetic flux in the solar wind between 1 and 10 AU - A theoretical analysis

Observations suggesting that the mean solar wind azimuthal field strength B(theta) near the ecliptic plane falls off more rapidly with heliocentric distance than would be expected in a classic Parker expansion is reexamined from a theoretical perspective using a three-dimensional MHD nonlinear numerical model for steady, corotating flow. For realistic solar wind parameters, it is found that a purely axisymmetric expansion can produce sizable magnetic flux deficits only when there are substantial meridional gradients in mean flow conditions localized about the ecliptic plane near the sun. Calculations on three-dimensional cororating flows are presented which demonstrate that latitudinal transport of magnetic flux by stream interactions may be an important consideration in generating the deficits in mean B(theta).

Pizzo, V. J.↗
NASA NTRS1994

Global circulation, thermal structure, and carbon monoxide distribution in Venus' mesosphere in 1991

Millimeter-wave observations of CO lines have provided a detailed picture of Venus' mesosphere dynamics in 1991 from simultaneous measurements of absolute wind velocities in two layers and of temperature and CO horizontal and vertical profiles at 75-115 km. Venus' circulation at 90-110 km was characterized in 1991 by the superposition of a zonal retrograde flow and a subsolar-to-antisolar flow of approximately equal velocities, increasing from about 40 +/- 15 m/sec at 95 km to 90 +/- 15 m/sec at 105 km altitude. The magnitude of the increase of the SS-AS flow is consistent with Venus thermosphere general circulation models (VTGCM). At 105 km, the data further indicate a cos(latitude) dependence of the zonal flow and marginally suggest the presence of a poleward meridional component of 35 +/- 30 m/sec. No obvious day-to-day variations of the circulation are evident in the data at the 20 m/sec level. Thermal profiles in the low-latitude region appear to be consistent with the Pioneer Venus nightside profile, except above 110 km, where they are somewhat colder. High-latitude warming is still found, but mid-latitudes appear to be colder than the equator. The atmosphere appears to be in cyclostrophic balance up to about 105 km. The horizontal distribution of CO on Venus' nightside is essentially uniform, both in latitude and in local time. This behavior agrees with VTGCM simulations in which the zonal flow velocity is prescribed to match the observations. Comparison with previous wind measurements indicates that the zonal flow experiences dramatic long-term variations. This variability, along with short-term fluctuations of the mesospheric zonal flow (evidenced by the variability in the O2 nightglow emissions), apparently controls the CO and O2 nightglow distributions. Gravity wave activity is a plausible mechanism that can drive these variations.

Lellouch, Emmanuel↗
NASA NTRS1989

The sensitivity of stationary waves to variations in the basic state zonal flow

A linear, primitive equation stationary wave model having high vertical and meridional resolution is used to examine the sensitivity of orographically forced (primarily by Himalayas) stationary waves at middle and high latitudes to variations in the basic state zonal wind distribution. We find relatively little sensitivity to the winds in high latitudes, but remarkable sensitivity to small variations in the subtropical jet. Fluctuations well within the range of observed variability in the jet can lead to large variations in the stationary waves of the high latitude stratosphere, and to large changes even in tropospheric stationary waves. Implications for both sudden warmings and large-scale weather are discussed.

Nigam, Sumant↗
NASA NTRS1989

Mathematical Models Of Turbulence In Transonic Flow

Predictions of several models compared with measurements of well-documented flow. Report reviews performances of variety of mathematical models of turbulence in transonic flow. Predictions of models compared with measurements of flow in wind tunnel along outside of cylinder having axisymmetric bump of circular-arc cross section in meridional plane. Review part of continuing effort to calibrate and verify computer codes for prediction of transonic flows about airfoils. Johnson-and-King model proved superior in predicting transonic flow over bumpy cylinder.

Rubesin, Morris W.↗
NASA NTRS1985

Duct-Flow Analysis

Quasi-two-dimensional velocity distribution through annular duct calculated. Computer program ANDUCT developed for calculating velocity distribution along arbitrary line between inner and outer walls of annular duct with axisymmetric swirling flow. Velocity gradient equation used with assumed variation of meridional streamline curvature. ANDUCT written in FORTRAN IV for use on IBM 370/3033 computer.

Katsanis, T.↗
NASA NTRS1989

VHF radar measurements in the summer polar mesosphere

Measurements in the mesosphere over Andoya/Norway (69 N, 16 E) were carried out using the mobile SOUSY-VHF radar with an extended beam configuration during the MAC/SINE campaign in summer 1987. First results of a 48 h and a 3 h observational period for heights between about 83 and 91 km are presented. Zonal mean winds are characterized by a strong westward flow of up to 50/ms, whereas the equatorward directed meridional component is weaker. The dominating semidiurnal tide has amplitudes up to 30/ms and a vertical wavelength of about 55 km. The diurnal tide is less pronounced. The total upward flux of horizontal momentum takes values of -2 sq m/sq s near 84 km and increases with increasing height, reaching a maximum value of 22 sq m/sqs for both the zonal and meridional components. However, measurements of the horizontal isotropy of the wave field suggest significant anisotropy. The major contribution to the momentum flux is from the 10 min to 1 h period range below about 87 km, and from the 1 to 6 h period range above this height.

Ruester, R.↗
NASA NTRS1993

Thermal structure and dust loading of the Martian atmosphere during late southern summer - Mariner 9 revisited

Thermal emission spectra recorded by the Mariner 9 IR interferometer spectrometer (IRIS) are used to investigate the temperature structure and dust loading of the Martian atmosphere. The analysis is restricted to a subset of the IRIS data consisting of approximately 2400 spectra in a 12-day period extending from LS of 343 to 348 deg, corresponding to late southern summer on Mars. The largest column-integrated 9-micron dust optical depths (about 0.4) occur over the equatorial regions. The highest atmospheric temperatures (greater than 260 K) are found at low altitudes near the subsolar latitude (about 6 deg S), while the coldest temperatures (less than 150 K) are found at levels near 1.0 mbar over the winter pole. The existence of a net zonally averaged meridional circulation with rising motion at low latitudes, poleward flow at altitudes above 40 km, and subsidence over the poles is suggested.

Santee, Michelle↗
NASA NTRS2013

A Global Model of Meteoric Sodium

A global model of sodium in the mesosphere and lower thermosphere has been developed within the framework of the National Center for Atmospheric Research's Whole Atmosphere Community Climate Model (WACCM). The standard fully interactive WACCM chemistry module has been augmented with a chemistry scheme that includes nine neutral and ionized sodium species. Meteoric ablation provides the source of sodium in the model and is represented as a combination of a meteoroid input function (MIF) and a parameterized ablation model. The MIF provides the seasonally and latitudinally varying meteoric flux which is modeled taking into consideration the astronomical origins of sporadic meteors and considers variations in particle entry angle, velocity, mass, and the differential ablation of the chemical constituents. WACCM simulations show large variations in the sodium constituents over time scales from days to months. Seasonality of sodium constituents is strongly affected by variations in the MIF and transport via the mean meridional wind. In particular, the summer to winter hemisphere flow leads to the highest sodium species concentrations and loss rates occurring over the winter pole. In the Northern Hemisphere, this winter maximum can be dramatically affected by stratospheric sudden warmings. Simulations of the January 2009 major warming event show that it caused a short-term decrease in the sodium column over the polar cap that was followed by a factor of 3 increase in the following weeks. Overall, the modeled distribution of atomic sodium in WACCM agrees well with both ground-based and satellite observations. Given the strong sensitivity of the sodium layer to dynamical motions, reproducing its variability provides a stringent test of global models and should help to constrain key atmospheric variables in this poorly sampled region of the atmosphere.

meteoric flux↗
NASA NTRS1984

Programs for calculating quasi-three-dimensional flow in a turbomachine blade row

MERIDL is a program that calculates a meridional plane stream function solution, and TSONIC is a program that calculates a blade to blade stream function solution for turbomachine blade passages. Both programs are discussed, including input required and assumptions and limitations. Examples of use and references are included.

Katsanis, T.↗
NASA NTRS1983

Interaction of the antarctic circumpolar current with bottom topography - An investigation using satellite altimetry

Theoretical studies on the interaction of a zonal current with a zonal ridge, an isolated bump, and a meridional ridge compare favorably with hydrographic observations within the eastward flowing Antarctic Circumpolar Current where it flows over similar topographic features. However, the existing hydrographic data are insufficient for examining the temporal stability and kinematic behavior of the resulting mesoscale structures. In this study, some of these transient features have been compared with patterns in sea surface variability, derived from collinear satellite altimetric data. When these features occurred near the crossing point of two satellite ground traces, it was possible to characterize their length scales, dynamic height relief, and translational and surface geostrophic velocities.

Colton, M. T.↗
NASA NTRS1986

Equatorial thermospheric measurements of temperatures and winds at Arequipa, Peru

Enhancement of FPI temperatures above quiet levels was observed a few hours after the start of magnetic activity. Magnitude of this enhancement is about 300 degrees. This is followed by relaxation to prestorm levels. Apparent average offset of RPI temperatures from mass spectrometer incoherent scatter radar by 100 to 200 degrees for relatively quiet times is also observed. There was a definite suggestion of a midnight thermal enhancement for April and August data, with a magnitude of about 100 degrees, seen in both 1983 and 1984 observations. There was a definite enhancement of 6300A surface brightness in the south as compared with other directions, probably connected to the tropical airglow arcs. Meridional winds were small (less than 25 m/s) throughout night. Indication of northward migration of the observed 6300A enhancement in the evening hours as observations approach local winter solstice. This is probably related to the observed poleward (to the south) meridional wind (of magnitude 50 m/s) in this period. Zonal component of winds always eastward, but speed approaches zero sooner near equinox than at summer solstice. Typical magnitude at peak is of order 100 to 150 m/s. Suggestion of zonal wind increase after twilight and recovery of 6300A emission for April data. Origin not clear but may be related to midnight thermal enhancement. Meridional wind virtually zero for equinox in 1983; shows evening flow towards winter hemisphere in early evening for solstice data. Suggestion of post-midnight surge in April 1984 data. No major effects associated with magnetic storm activity, but a suggestion of decrease in zonal component below nominal levels.

Meriwether, J. W., Jr.↗
NASA NTRS1993

Optimization of a Centrifugal Impeller Design Through CFD Analysis

This paper discusses the procedure, approach and Rocketdyne CFD results for the optimization of the NASA consortium impeller design. Two different approaches have been investigated. The first one is to use a tandem blade arrangement, the main impeller blade is split into two separate rows with the second blade row offset circumferentially with respect to the first row. The second approach is to control the high losses related to secondary flows within the impeller passage. Many key parameters have been identified and each consortium team member involved will optimize a specific parameter using 3-D CFD analysis. Rocketdyne has provided a series of CFD grids for the consortium team members. SECA will complete the tandem blade study, SRA will study the effect of the splitter blade solidity change, NASA LeRC will evaluate the effect of circumferential position of the splitter blade, VPI will work on the hub to shroud blade loading distribution, NASA Ames will examine the impeller discharge leakage flow impacts and Rocketdyne will continue to work on the meridional contour and the blade leading to trailing edge work distribution. This paper will also present Rocketdyne results from the tandem blade study and from the blade loading distribution study. It is the ultimate goal of this consortium team to integrate the available CFD analysis to design an advanced technology impeller that is suitable for use in the NASA Space Transportation Main Engine (STME) fuel turbopump.

Chen, W. C.↗
NASA NTRS1986

Cloud-top meridional momentum transports on Saturn and Jupiter

Cloud-tracked wind measurements reported by Sromovsky et al. were analyzed to determine meridional momentum transports in Saturn's northern middle latitudes. Results are expressed in terms of eastward and northward velocity components (u and v), and eddy components u and v. At most latitudes between 13 and 44 deg N (planetocentric), the transport by the mean flow ( ) is measurably southward, tending to support Saturn's large equatorial jet, and completely dominating the eddy transport. Meridional velocities are near zero at the peak of the relatively weak westward jet; along the flanks of that jet, measurements indicate divergent flow out of the jet. In this region the dominant eddy transport ( ) is northward on the north side of the jet, but not resolvable on the south side. Eddy transports at most other latitudes are not significantly different from measurement error. The conversion of eddy kinetic energy to mean kinetic energy, indicated by the correlation between and d /dy (where y is meridional distance) is clearly smaller than various values reported for Jupiter, and not significantly different from zero. Both Jovian and Saturnian results may be biased by the tendency for cloud tracking to favor high contrast features, and thus may not be entirely representative of the cloud level motions as a whole.

Stromovsky, L. A.↗