Abstract
As a model for natural convection in the Earth's upper crust, we discuss the flow in a porous tilted layer of infinite extent in an impermeable surrounding of different thermal conductivity across which a vertical temperature gradient acts. We calculate the basic nonlinear flow solution; it is a large-scale along-slope flow with zero mean flow. Two important geophysical consequences are discussed: (a) the transport of passive tracers by applying Taylor's theory of dispersion to our system, and (b) diagenetic changes of the porous matrix. For realistic geophysical parameters we estimate the order of magnitude of the effects and discuss the ranges of validity of the theory. The enhancement of diffusion of passive tracers due to the flow is quite significant and might have important implications for the migration of nuclear waste buried in the Earth.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callMore From: Physical review. A, Atomic, molecular, and optical physics
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
