Published online by Cambridge University Press: 29 March 2006
Wavenumber frequency spectra have been measured in a two-dimensional incompressible mixing layer, using linearized hot-wire anemometers. Spectra of two dimensions (frequency and wavenumber) have been measured for lateral and longitudinal turbulent velocities, and used to construct three-dimensional spectra. The validity of the separation assumption used to construct these spectra was tested. Spectra of the velocity product responsible for the mean shear stress and the lateral gradient of this spectrum have been determined, as has a structure constant for the lateral velocity fluctuations that Phillips (1967) suggested is relevant to the maintenance of the shear stress gradient. Phillips’ (1967) stress model fails the tests proposed in this study.