Note on the effect of rotation on diffusion processes

Abstract

A gas in solid rotation that is subjected to a radial temperature gradient develops a component of heat diffusion at right angles to the gradient. The magnitude of this diffusive flux, relative to the radial component, is 2λω/v?, where λ and v? are the mean free path and the mean radial speed of the molecules, respectively, and ω is the angular velocity of the system. Corresponding effects occur in diffusion of mass and momentum. It is suggested that the same effect becomes important in the large-scale turbulent transports in the atmosphere and the oceans. The prediction is that a general eastward eddy heat flux should occur.