Numerical simulations of semiconvection

Abstract

Using a semiconvective model based on thermohaline convection, we investigate the case of an expanding core of a main-sequence massive star. The numerical simulations at high Prandtl number show a flow consistent with the assumption that a dynamically neutral layer sits between the core and the radiative envelope. More simulations at low Prandtl number are needed to infer scaling laws applicable to astrophysical regimes. © 2007 International Astronomical Union.