Third Place, 2016

The Standard Nontwist Map is a universal model for describing transport — exchange of mass, energy or momentum — in fluids and gases. It simulates dynamics of particles in various systems and transition to chaotic motion for select map parameters. Regions of high mixing and movement are identified within the chaotic regions on the edge of the map, whereas barriers to transport are identified with orbits in the middle. The study of transport is important for many reasons: for the migration of mid-latitude ozone that replenishes the ozone hole, preventing pollutants in the ocean from washing up on beaches, and preventing the escape of heat and particles in fusion plasma devices.

Credit:
George Miloshevich
Physics Graduate Student