EPSRC Reference: |
GR/R94848/01 |
Title: |
Experiments on quantum turbulence in superfluid He-4 at mK temperatures: the use of a towed grid |
Principal Investigator: |
McClintock, Professor P |
Other Investigators: |
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Researcher Co-Investigators: |
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Project Partners: |
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Department: |
Physics |
Organisation: |
Lancaster University |
Scheme: |
Standard Research (Pre-FEC) |
Starts: |
01 July 2003 |
Ends: |
31 October 2006 |
Value (£): |
184,763
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EPSRC Research Topic Classifications: |
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EPSRC Industrial Sector Classifications: |
Manufacturing |
Transport Systems and Vehicles |
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Related Grants: |
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Panel History: |
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Summary on Grant Application Form |
We have initiated an experimental study of quantum turbulence created by an oscillating grid in superfluid helium-4 at mK temperatures, and we have demonstrated that study of the evolution of the vortex line density can be based on the trapping of ions by the vortex lines. We propose now to focus on the theoretically simpler case of homogeneous quantum turbulence produced by a towed grid. A body of existing theoretical speculation will serve to guide the experiments and their interpretation. This interpretation is likely to be based on fundamental concepts in superfluid dynamics that have not so far been explored in great detail: such as vortex reconnections; Kelvin-wave cascades; quasi-classical behaviour on large length scales; the role of small vortex rings in the decay of turbulence; and the nature of non-linear turbulent interactions.But continued progress requires: (a) a measurement of the vortex/ion capture cross-section, to give us an absolute measure of the vortex densities in our cell, which will be implemented through collaboration with the Manchester group and the use of their rotating cryostat; and (b) additional skilled manpower and some additional equipment to develop the superconducting linear motor that will drive the towed grid in Lancaster.
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Key Findings |
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Potential use in non-academic contexts |
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Impacts |
Description |
This information can now be found on Gateway to Research (GtR) http://gtr.rcuk.ac.uk |
Summary |
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Date Materialised |
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Sectors submitted by the Researcher |
This information can now be found on Gateway to Research (GtR) http://gtr.rcuk.ac.uk
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Project URL: |
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Further Information: |
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Organisation Website: |
http://www.lancs.ac.uk |