Some fundamental issues in buoyancy-driven flows with implications for geophysical and astrophysical systems

Buoyancy-driven flows are prevalent in a wide range of geophysical and astrophysical systems. In this review, we focus on three pivotal effects that significantly influence the dynamics and transport properties of buoyancy-driven flows and may have implications for natural systems. These effects pertain to the role of boundary conditions, the impact of rotation, and the effect of finite size. Boundary conditions represent how the fluid flow interacts with different kinds of surfaces. Rotation, as the Earth’s rotation in geophysical systems or the whirling of astrophysical systems, introduces Coriolis and centrifugal forces, leading to the profound vortical structure and distinct transport property. Finite size, representing geometrical constraints, influences the behavior of buoyancy-driven flows across varying geometrical settings. This review aims to provide a holistic understanding of the intricate interplay of these factors, offering insights into the complex natural phenomena from the perspectives of the three effects.