Comparison of finite time Lyapunov exponents and dispersion for a chaotic fluid flow
Abstract
Lagrangian tools such as Absolute Dispersion Relative Dispersion and Finite Time Lyapunov Exponents are used to analyze different chaotic systems in particular fluid flow systems for the case of this study. However, the results from the flow analysis may divert from the actual observations depending on the tool used and the errors incurred when currying out the analysis. In this study, a meandering jet flow is used to compute and obtain probability distribution functions of Absolute Dispersion, Relative Dispersion and Finite Time Lyapunov Exponents. Finite Time Lyapunov Exponents, Relative and Absolute Dispersion are then compared statistically and some specifications are recommended for the fluid flow analysis by this study.