Segment V8.2: Turbulence in a Bowl

(Related to Textbook Section 8.3.2 - Turbulent Shear Stress)

Turbulent flow can often be thought of as a series of random, 3-dimensional eddy motions (swirls) ranging from large eddies down through very small eddies.

The turbulent nature of the flow of soup being stirred in a bowl is made visible by use of small reflective flakes that align with the motion. The initial stirring causes considerable small and large scale turbulence. As time goes by, the smaller eddies dissipate, leaving the larger scale eddies. Eventually, all of the motion dies out. The irregular, random nature of turbulent flow is apparent.