Deep convection-driven vortex formation on Jupiter and Saturn.

ABSTRACT: The surfaces of Jupiter and Saturn have magnificent vortical storms that help shape the dynamic nature of their atmospheres. Land- and space-based observational campaigns have established several properties of these vortices, with some being similar between the two planets, while others are different. Shallow-water hydrodynamics, where the vortices are treated as shallow weather-layer phenomenon, is commonly evoked for explaining their formation and properties. Here, we report novel formation mechanisms for vortices where the primary driving mechanism is the deep planetary convection occurring in these planets. Using three-dimensional simulations of turbulent convection in rotating spherical shells, we propose two ideas: (i) Rotating turbulent convection generates deep axially aligned cycl

SUBMITTER: Yadav RK 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7673750 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature