Vortex generation by a convective instability in a cylindrical annulus non-homogeneously heated

In this work we present a convective instability as the mechanism for generating vertical vortices in a cylindrical annulus non-homogeneously heated from below. Assuming axisymmetry, we study thermal and geometrical conditions under which stable vortical structures are found. The structure of these vortices appears to be qualitatively similar to that of dust devils.

► A thermoconvective instability is presented as the mechanism for generating stable vertical vortices.
► The structure of these vortices appears to be similar to that of dust devils.
► The vortices appear to be stable for large ranges of the Rayleigh number.