[ESAC Seminar] Jiaru Shi

“Polar Vortex Dynamics on Gas Giants: Insights from 2D Energy Cascades”

The distinct polar vortex structures observed on Jupiter and Saturn may provide insights into their interiors. In this study, we examine how the number and structure of polar vortices vary with forcing strength, dissipation rate, and interior stratification using a 1.5-layer QG model. This simplified setup enables a broad exploration of the parameter space, revealing that vortex characteristics are determined by the sequence in which three key length scales — the deformation radius Ld, the zonostrophic scale Lγ, and the dissipative scale Lμ — are encountered as energy cascades from small to large scales. Primordial energy in the system also plays a critical role in the early-stage homogenization of potential vorticity, which is essential for the formation of a vortex crystal.

ESAC Student Seminar Series —

A forum for students and postdocs to share recent research, hone presentation skills, and build community among peers, sponsored by the EAPS Student Advisory Committee. Open to current EAPS graduate and undergraduate students and postdocs. Typically hosted on Thursdays during the semester, including pizza lunch.

Contact: esac.officers@gmail.com