Lorenz model of Rayleigh-Bénard convection with chaotic behaviour

Abstract

This article addresses turbulent (chaotic) convection in the Lorenz model. The transition from the governing hydrodynamic equations in the Boussinesq approximation to the Saltzman equations and to the Lorenz equations is outlined.

Qualitatively different types of convection and transitions between them, including to the chaotic regime, are reviewed. Some historical points of interest are also noted.

Keywords

• Lorenz model
• Rayleigh-Bénard convection
• chaotic convection