astrophysical turbulence

Astrophysical turbulence refers to chaotic, irregular flows of gas and plasma in space, such as in stars, nebulae, and the interstellar medium. These turbulent motions involve swirling, mixing, and rapid changes in velocity and density, which influence star formation and the distribution of matter. Like weather patterns but on cosmic scales, turbulence results from complex forces like gravity, magnetic fields, and shocks. Understanding it helps astronomers explain how matter evolves in the universe and how processes like galaxy formation occur, making turbulence a key aspect of many astrophysical phenomena.