The topology of homogeneous isotropic turbulence with passive scalar transport

Abstract

Data obtained from direct numerical simulations of isotropic homogeneous turbulence and the diffusion of a scalar with an applied mean gradient is analysed using the topological techniques developed by Chong, Perry and Cantwell [ Physics of Fluids A , 2 :765-777, 1990]. Simulations were run at two different Taylor--Reynolds numbers and two different Schmidt numbers. Comparing the numerical results obtained, relationships between the scalar characteristics and the topological features of the flow are identified.