Double-Diffusive Convection

The first systematic overview of double-diffusive convection, providing both fundamental theory and real-world examples for researchers, professionals and graduate students.

Timour Radko (Author)

9781108445832, Cambridge University Press

Paperback / softback, published 1 March 2018

344 pages, 151 b/w illus. 8 colour illus. 4 tables
24.4 x 17 x 2 cm, 0.64 kg

'The intimate connection between theory and data is a strength of this text … The content of [the book] could be effectively communicated in a classroom. While it is best suited for advanced graduate students in fluid dynamics or physical oceanography, students in other related fields would certainly learn a lot from this text.' Colin R. Meyer, Pure and Applied Geophysics

Double-diffusive convection is a mixing process driven by the interaction of two fluid components which diffuse at different rates. Leading expert Timour Radko presents the first systematic overview of the classical theory of double-diffusive convection in a coherent narrative, bringing together the disparate literature in this developing field. The book begins by exploring idealized dynamical models and illustrating key principles by examples of oceanic phenomena. Building on the theory, it then explains the dynamics of structures resulting from double-diffusive instabilities, such as the little-understood phenomenon of thermohaline staircases. The book also surveys non-oceanographic applications, such as industrial, astrophysical and geological manifestations, and discusses the climatic and biological consequences of double-diffusive convection. Providing a balanced blend of fundamental theory and real-world examples, this is an indispensable resource for academic researchers, professionals and graduate students in physical oceanography, fluid dynamics, applied mathematics, astrophysics, geophysics and climatology.

Preface
1. General principles
2. The linear instability problem
3. The unbounded gradient model
4. The two-layer system
5. The bounded layer model
6. Collective instability
7. Thermohaline intrusions
8. Thermohaline staircases
9. The unified theory of secondary double-diffusive instabilities
10. Double-diffusion in active environments
11. Large-scale consequences
12. Beyond oceanography
13. Perspectives and challenges
References
Index.

Subject Areas: Earth sciences [RB], Earth sciences, geography, environment, planning [R], Mathematics & science [P]