Rayleigh-Benard : Simulation vs. Experimental Results

Abstract

The Rayleigh-Benard convection model describes convection currents that organize in fluid that is heated from below; a regular pattern of convention cells, known as Benard cells, are characteristic of this model. Warm water is less dense than cool water and consequently rises; as the warm water cools, its density increases and begins to sink. The system self-organizes into multiple Benard cells, each driven by density currents of warm water rising and cool water sinking. This project is based on a 2-D model of Rayleigh-Benard convection. Use of an FLIR Exx infrared (IR) camera (λ= 7.5 μm to 13 μm) allows researchers to compare computer models with experimental data. Infrared radiation, part of the electromagnetic spectrum, is emitted from objects as a function of temperature.