Evolution of a Network of Vortex Loops in HeII. Exact Solution of the "Rate Equation"

Abstract

Evolution of a network of vortex loops in HeII due to the fusion and breakdown of vortex loops is studied. We perform investigation on the base of the ''rate equation'' for the distribution function $n(l)$ of number of loops of length $l$ proposed by Copeland with coauthors. By using the special ansatz in the ''collision'' integral we have found the exact power-like solution of ''kinetic equation'' in stationary case. That solution is the famous equilibrium distribution $n(l)\propto l^{-5/2}$ obtained earlier in numerical calculations. Our result, however, is not equilibrium, but on the contrary, it describes the state with two mutual fluxes of the length (or energy) in space of the vortex loop sizes. Analyzing this solution we drew several results on the structure and dynamics of the vortex tangle in the superfluid turbulent helium. In particular, we obtained that the mean radius of the curvature is of order of interline space. We also obtain that the decay of the vortex tangle obeys the Vinen equation, obtained earlier phenomenologically. We evaluate also the full rate of reconnection events. PACS-number 67.40

4 pages, submitted to PRL

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