The Generation and Dissipation of Solar and Galactic Magnetic Fields

Astronomy and Astrophysics – Astrophysics

Scientific paper

Rate now

  [ 0.00 ] – not rated yet Voters 0   Comments 0

Details

37

Scientific paper

Turbulent diffusion of magnetic field plays an essential role in the generation of magnetic field in most astrophysical bodies. This paper reviews what can be proved, and what can be believed, about the turbulent diffusion of magnetic field. Observations indicate the dissipation of magnetic field at rates that can be understood only in terms of turbulent diffusion. Theory shows that a largescale weak magnetic field diffuses in a turbulent flow in the same way that smoke is mixed throughout the fluid by the turbulence. The small-scale fields (produced from the large-scale field by the turbulence) are limited in their growth by reconnection of field lines at neutral points, so that the turbulent mixing of field and fluid is not halted by them. Altogether, it appears that the mixing of field and fluid in the observed turbulent motions in the Sun and in the Galaxy is unavoidable. Turbulent diffusion causes decay of the general solar fields in a decade or so, and of the galactic field in 108 109 yr. We conclude that continual dynamo action is implied by the observed existence of the fields.

No associations

LandOfFree

Say what you really think

Search LandOfFree.com for scientists and scientific papers. Rate them and share your experience with other people.

Rating

The Generation and Dissipation of Solar and Galactic Magnetic Fields does not yet have a rating. At this time, there are no reviews or comments for this scientific paper.

If you have personal experience with The Generation and Dissipation of Solar and Galactic Magnetic Fields, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and The Generation and Dissipation of Solar and Galactic Magnetic Fields will most certainly appreciate the feedback.

Rate now

     

Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-1663837

  Search
All data on this website is collected from public sources. Our data reflects the most accurate information available at the time of publication.