Hexaroll chaos in inclined layer convection

Abstract

We report experimental observations of hexaroll chaos in inclined layer convection. Two separate populations of defect complexes characterize the defect turbulent state, one the classical penta-hepta defect of hexagonal planform patterns, and the other a short-lived complex capable of self-annihilation. By measuring the defect statistics we show that short-lived defect complexes give rise to linear defect destruction rates. This observation explains previous results in other defect-turbulent pattern forming systems.