Constrained random walks and vortex filaments in turbulence theory

We consider a simplified model of vorticity configurations in the inertial range of turbulent flow, in which vortex filaments are viewed as random walks in thermal equilibrium subjected to the constraints of helicity and energy conservation. The model is simple enough so that its properties can be investigated by a relatively straightforward Monte-Carlo method: a pivot algorithm with Metropolis weighting. Reasonable values are obtained for the intermittency dimensionD, a Kolmogorov-like exponent , and higher moments of the velocity derivatives. Qualitative conclusions are drawn regarding the origin of non-gaussian velocity statistics and regarding analogies with polymers and with systems near a critical point.This work was supported in part by the Applied Mathematical Sciences Subprogram of the Office of Energy Research, US Department of Energy, under Contract Number DE-AC03-76SF000098