Abstract
We consider the nature of non-linear flow of a two-layer fluid with a rigid lid over a long obstacle, such that the flow may be assumed to be hydrostatic. Such flows can generate hydraulic jumps upstream, and the model uses a new model of internal hydraulic jumps, which results in corrections to flows that have been computed using earlier models of jumps that are now known to be incorrect. The model covers the whole range of ratios of the densities of the two fluids, and is not restricted to the Boussinesq limit. The results are presented in terms of flow types in various regions of a Froude number-obstacle height (F0 – Hm) diagram, in which the Froude number F0 is based on the initial flow conditions. When compared with single-layer flow, and some previous results with two layers, some surprising and novel patterns emerge on these diagrams. Specifically, in parts of the diagram where the flow may be supercritical (F0 > 1), there are regions where hysteresis may occur, implying that the flow may have two and sometimes three multiple flow states for the same conditions (i.e. values of F0 and Hm).
Highlights
Some phenomena in the lower atmosphere may be approximately described by motion of a dense lower layer surmounted by a deep upper layer of approximately uniform density
We present some representative examples of such diagrams which indicate some surprising and novel features of the flow of two fluids
We have used a new formulation of two-layer hydraulic jumps to determine the properties of non-linear flow over long obstacles. This hydraulic jump formulation uses a vorticity balance to infer the pressure differences across the jump, and avoids assumptions made in earlier models that are seen to be incorrect
Summary
Some phenomena in the lower atmosphere may be approximately described by motion of a dense lower layer surmounted by a deep upper layer of approximately uniform density. The processes that occur in such flows can be described by the analysis of flows consisting of two layers of uniform density and velocity with a rigid upper surface. This constitutes the simplest form of density-stratified flow, and contains a number of phenomena that are prominent in more complex flows, such as hydraulic jumps. The Boussinesq approximation (namely, that the fluid density is assumed uniform except where multiplied by g) is not made here. This enables a better appreciation of the effects of density variation, in hydraulic jumps. The presence of the upper boundary provides some simplifications, and while not being relevant to the atmosphere, can be removed to an arbitrarily high level
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary 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 callDisclaimer: 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.
