= Boussinesq up-down symmetry
{c}
= Boussinesq symmetry
{c}
{synonym}
With mechanically and thermally equivalent upper and lower boundaries, the <Boussinesq approximation> permits reflection through the layer midplane together with reversal of the temperature perturbation and vertical velocity. In a reduced <convection> temperature equation this induces temperature inversion. A quadratic term which changes differently from the linear terms breaks this symmetry; a cubic term can preserve it. The <Boussinesq approximation> alone does not impose symmetry on unequal boundary conditions.
Back to article page
