Chapter 7: Vortex in a Non-Rotating Tank

We mechanically generate a strongly turbulent vortex (max Reynolds number Re ~ 50,000) in a non-rotating tank of fluid. The flow is forced via a flap on the left hand side of the tank, located at around 9 o’clock. The flow is strongly three dimensional with rapid mixing of the different dye patches in the fluid. Also note that the vorticity is strongly localized, likely approximating a so-called potential vortex. This flow is qualitatively similar to the strongly-driven vortex motion of a hurricane.