What does "Eddy Viscosity" mean?

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Eddy viscosity is a concept used in fluid dynamics to describe how fluids behave when they are flowing, especially when the flow is turbulent. When a fluid moves, it can form swirls or eddies. These movements can mix the fluid and change its speed and direction.

In simple terms, think of eddy viscosity like extra stickiness in a fluid. This stickiness happens because of the small whirlpools and chaotic movements that occur in turbulent flow. It helps scientists understand how energy and momentum are transferred within the fluid, similar to how stirring a thick sauce can mix its ingredients.

Eddy viscosity is useful for predicting how fluids behave in different situations, like in jet flows or during a storm. By using certain techniques, researchers can estimate the eddy viscosity and improve their simulations of fluid motion, leading to more accurate results without needing complicated equations.