Dynamical modeling of sub-grid scales in 2D turbulence (Q1583821)

The paper describes the application of a dynamical sub-grid scale model for numerical simulation of two-dimensional turbulence. Using a sharp cut-off filter in Fourier space, the Navier-Stokes equations are split into two evolution equations, one for the large scales and one for the small scales. The model is based on the assumption that large scales produce much stronger velocity than intermediate and small scales. It is justified with arguments from rapid distortion theory. The large scale equation is solved with a classical pseudospectral method while the small scale equation is computed by a particle-in-cell method. The dynamical sub-grid scale approach is validated by comparing numerical simulations for a vortex merger in decaying forced two-dimensional isotropic turbulent flow with results obtained by direct numerical simulation.