Kolmogorov two-thirds law by matched asymptotic expansion

The Kolmogorov two-thirds law is derived for large Reynolds number isotropic turbulence by the method of matched asymptotic expansions. Inner and outer variables are derived from the Karman-Howarth equation by using the von Karman self-preservation hypothesis. Matching the resulting large Reynolds number asymptotic expansions yields the Kolmogorov law. The Kolmogorov similarity hypotheses are not assumed; only the Navier-Stokes equation is employed and the assumption that dissipation is finite. This indicates that the Kolmogorov results are a direct consequence of the Navier-Stokes equations. (C) 2002 American Institute of Physics.