Hydrodynamic stability and mode coupling in Keplerian flows: local strato-rotational analysis

Abstract

Aims.We present a qualitative analysis of key (but yet unappreciated) linear phenomena in stratified hydrodynamic Keplerian flows: (i) the occurrence of a vortex mode, as a consequence of strato-rotational balance, with its transient dynamics; (ii) the generation of spiral-density waves (also called inertia-gravity or waves) by the vortex mode through linear mode coupling in shear flows.