Generation of mean flows by thermal convection (Q1068624)

Various mechanisms of the generation of mean flows by fluctuating convection motions in fluid layers are reviewed. Reynolds stresses causing mean flows are either an intrinsic nonlinear property of convection, or they are produced when a secondary bifurcation to a more complex form of convection occurs, or they enter in the form of an instability, such that the sign of the mean flow depends on initial conditions. The basic mechanisms are elucidated by simple analytical models. Geophysical and astrophysical applications which have motivated most of the research on the topic of this review are mentioned only in passing. Finally the problem of mean flow generation owing to a temperature dependent viscosity is considered and the analogy to the Reynolds stress mechanism is pointed out.