CFD for turbulence: from fundamentals to geophysics and astrophysics

Abstract

Over the years, the combination of computational fluid dynamics (CFD) and theoretical models have critically contributed to improving our understanding of the nature of turbulent flows. In this paper, we review the role of CFD in the study of turbulence through both direct numerical simulations and the resolution of statistical multi-scale theories. With a historical perspective, we will discuss the evolution of the numerical modeling of turbulence from the first numerical experiments as proposed by Orszag and Patterson [1] to complex geophysical and plasma simulations where body forces such as Coriolis, the buoyancy force, or the Lorentz force can introduce strong anisotropies. Looking beyond the horizon, we address the future challenges for CFD and turbulence theorists with the prospect of exascale supercomputing.

Keywords

• Turbulence modeling
• Direct numerical simulation
• Turbulence theories
• Statistical closure approaches
• Large eddy simulation
• Rotating and unstable stratified flows
• Plasma and magnetohydrodynamics (MHD) turbulence