Polar vortex dynamics on gas giants: Insights from 2D energy cascades

• 成果类型: Article
• 署名作者: Shi, Jiaru; Kang, Wanying
• 署名单位: Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
• 刊物名称: PROCEEDINGS OF THE NATIONAL ACADEMY OF SCIENCES OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
• ISSN/ISSBN: 0027-8424; 1091-6490
• DOI: 10.1073/pnas.2500791123
• 发表日期: 2026-01-27
• 页码: e2500791123
• 关键词: energy cascade; zonostrophic turbulence; vortex; pole; jupiter; radiative-convective equilibrium; SHALLOW-WATER TURBULENCE; BETA-PLANE; numerical-simulation; POTENTIAL-VORTICITY; coherent structures; ENTROPY BUDGET; MODEL; jets; SATURNS

摘要

The distinct polar vortex dynamics 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 quasi-geostrophic 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 L7, and the dissipative scale L & micro;-are encountered as energy cascades from small to large scales. Four distinct vortex patterns are identified, including a vortex crystal resembling Jupiter's polar vortices and a single-vortex state akin to that of Saturn. The conditions under which these patterns emerge provide constraints on the stratification of Jupiter and Saturn.