A comparative study of the DR reactions of c-C3H+3 and l-C3H+3: Preliminary theoretical studies

International audiencePreliminary calculations related to the dissociative recombination (DR) of electrons with C3H+3 have been carried out. Both the linear and cyclic isomers of this ion exist in the interstellar medium, and accurate DR rate constants for both isomers are needed for astrophysical models. The electronic structure calculations reported here yield quasi-diabatic potential energy curves that can be used to assess the efficiency of dissociation of a CH bond. The calculations confirm a favorable position of a dissociative state for the cyclic isomer and suggest that dissociation of the linear isomer is less probable. More detailed dynamical studies are planned, and a normal mode analysis of the vibrational modes of C3H+3 is reported as the first step in that direction

Comparison of the multi-configuration, time-dependent Hartree (MCTDH) method with the Arthurs and Dalgarno coupled-channel method for rotationally inelastic scattering

International audienc

The Applicability of Time-Integrated Unit Stream Power for Estimating Bridge Pier Scour Using Noncontact Methods in a Gravel-Bed River

In near-field remote sensing, noncontact methods (radars) that measure stage and surface water velocity have the potential to supplement traditional bridge scour monitoring tools because they are safer to access and are less likely to be damaged compared with in-stream sensors. The objective of this study was to evaluate the use of radars for monitoring the hydraulic conditions that contribute to bridge–pier scour in gravel-bed channels. Measurements collected with a radar were also leveraged along with minimal field measurements to evaluate whether time-integrated stream power per unit area (Ω) was correlated with observed scour depth at a scour-critical bridge in Colorado. The results of this study showed that (1) there was close agreement between radar-based and U.S. Geological Survey streamgage-based measurements of stage and discharge, indicating that radars may be viable tools for monitoring flow conditions that lead to bridge pier scour; (2) Ω and pier scour depth were correlated, indicating that radar-derived Ω measurements may be used to estimate scour depth in real time and predict scour depth based on the measured trajectory of Ω. The approach presented in this study is intended to supplement, rather than replace, existing high-fidelity scour monitoring techniques and provide data quickly in information-poor areas

The Applicability of Time-Integrated Unit Stream Power for Estimating Bridge Pier Scour Using Noncontact Methods in a Gravel-Bed River

In near-field remote sensing, noncontact methods (radars) that measure stage and surface water velocity have the potential to supplement traditional bridge scour monitoring tools because they are safer to access and are less likely to be damaged compared with in-stream sensors. The objective of this study was to evaluate the use of radars for monitoring the hydraulic conditions that contribute to bridge–pier scour in gravel-bed channels. Measurements collected with a radar were also leveraged along with minimal field measurements to evaluate whether time-integrated stream power per unit area (Ω) was correlated with observed scour depth at a scour-critical bridge in Colorado. The results of this study showed that (1) there was close agreement between radar-based and U.S. Geological Survey streamgage-based measurements of stage and discharge, indicating that radars may be viable tools for monitoring flow conditions that lead to bridge pier scour; (2) Ω and pier scour depth were correlated, indicating that radar-derived Ω measurements may be used to estimate scour depth in real time and predict scour depth based on the measured trajectory of Ω. The approach presented in this study is intended to supplement, rather than replace, existing high-fidelity scour monitoring techniques and provide data quickly in information-poor areas