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Instability of plane parallel shear flow (toward a mechanistic picture of how it works)

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Abstract

This paper reviews work done over the last twelve years on wave overreflection in shear flows, and on the development of a mechanical picture of how overreflection and instability work. It is argued that the wave geometry of a flow configuration is the primary determinant of its stability. It is also argued that the primary mechanism for wave amplification is the Orr mechanism.

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  1. 54-1416 Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Center for Meteorology and Physical Oceanography, 02139, Cambridge, MA, USA

    Richard S. Lindzen

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  1. Richard S. Lindzen
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Lindzen, R.S. Instability of plane parallel shear flow (toward a mechanistic picture of how it works). PAGEOPH 126, 103–121 (1988). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00876917

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00876917

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