Quantum Turbulence

Abstract

We examine developments in the study of quantum turbulence with a special focus on clearly defining many of the terms used in the field. We critically review the diverse theoretical, computational, and experimental approaches from the point of view of experimental observers. Similarities and differences between the general properties of classical and quantum turbulence are elucidated. The dynamics and interactions of quantized vortices and their role in quantum turbulence are discussed with particular emphasis on reconnection and vortex ring collapse. A stark distinction between the velocity statistics of quantum and classical turbulence is exhibited and used to highlight a potential analogy between quantum turbulence and magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) turbulence in astrophysical plasmas. Although much of this review pertains to superfluid 4He (He II), the underlying science is broadly applicable to other quantum fluids such as 3He-B, type-II superconductors, Bose-Einstein condensates, Weinberg-Salam fields, and grand-unified-theory (GUT) Higgs fields.