The dynamics of Mars's polar vortices

Project Description:

Mars's atmosphere has many similarities with Earth; both planets have Hadley cells which transport heat and momentum from the equator, while encircling the poles are bands of strong winds known as polar vortices. However, Mars is also different in many ways. In the Martian winter, temperatures become so cold that the main atmospheric constituent, carbon dioxide, condenses at the polar caps.

Also at the polar caps are striking layered deposits of ice, dust, and other trace species. These can be thought of as equivalent to ice cores or tree rings on Earth; giving us a record of Mars's past climate. In fact, this is the only known climate record of a planet other than Earth.

This project will explore links between the dynamics of the Martian polar vortices and the transport of trace species to polar regions, with a view to understanding this climate record. We will use a suite of numerical modelling approaches recently developed by the supervisors, along with theory and comparisons with spacecraft observations. The project will suit candidates with interests, though not necessarily experience, in fluid dynamics, planetary atmospheres, and climate.