title: Evolution of a Vortex in a Strain Flow.
abstract: Experiments and vortex-in-cell simulations are used to study an initially axisymmetric, spatially distributed vortex subject to an externally imposed strain flow. The experiments use a magnetized pure electron plasma to model an inviscid two-dimensional fluid. The results are compared to a theory assuming an elliptical region of constant vorticity. For relatively flat vorticity profiles, the dynamics and stability threshold are in close quantitative agreement with the theory. Physics beyond the constant-vorticity model, such as vortex stripping, is investigated by studying the behavior of nonflat vorticity profiles.
authors.affiliation: Physics Department, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla California 92093, USA.
authors.forename: N C
authors.initials: NC
authors.lastname: Hurst
authors.affiliation: Physics Department, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla California 92093, USA.
authors.forename: J R
authors.initials: JR
authors.lastname: Danielson
authors.affiliation: Physics Department, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla California 92093, USA.
authors.forename: D H E
authors.initials: DH
authors.lastname: Dubin
authors.affiliation: Physics Department, University of California, San Diego, La Jolla California 92093, USA.
authors.forename: C M
authors.initials: CM
authors.lastname: Surko