Abstract
An introduction to instability theory is provided, together with application of the theory to a number of idealized flows. Essential issues pertaining to the distinction between, and the application of, spatial and temporal approaches are given particular attention. The selection of specific examples is motivated by both their relevance to environmental contexts and their pedagogical value. Emphasis is placed primarily on the instability of density stratified shear flows, but the chapter closes with a brief consideration of the overturning (Rayleigh-Taylor) instability of statically-unstable interfaces when diffusion of the stratifying agent is suppressed.
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Redekopp, L.G. (2003). Elements of Instability Theory for Environmental Flows. In: Grimshaw, R. (eds) Environmental Stratified Flows. Topics in Environmental Fluid Mechanics, vol 3. Springer, Boston, MA. https://doi.org/10.1007/0-306-48024-7_8
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/0-306-48024-7_8
Publisher Name: Springer, Boston, MA
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