Physics – Plasma Physics
Scientific paper
2008-12-05
Physics
Plasma Physics
10 pages, 2 figures, submitted to PRL, revised version
Scientific paper
10.1103/PhysRevLett.102.135003
In this paper the first non-linear force-free Vlasov-Maxwell equilibrium is presented. One component of the equilibrium magnetic field has the same spatial structure as the Harris sheet, but whereas the Harris sheet is kept in force balance by pressure gradients, in the force-free solution presented here force balance is maintained by magnetic shear. Magnetic pressure, plasma pressure and plasma density are constant. The method used to find the equilibrium is based on the analogy of the one-dimensional Vlasov-Maxwell equilibrium problem to the motion of a pseudo-particle in a two-dimensional conservative potential. This potential is equivalent to one of the diagonal components of the plasma pressure tensor. After finding the appropriate functional form for this pressure tensor component, the corresponding distribution functions can be found using a Fourier transform method. The force-free solution can be generalized to a complete family of equilibria that describe the transition between the purely pressure-balanced Harris sheet to the force-free Harris sheet.
Harrison Michael G.
Neukirch Thomas
No associations
LandOfFree
A one-dimensional Vlasov-Maxwell equilibrium for the force-free Harris sheet 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 A one-dimensional Vlasov-Maxwell equilibrium for the force-free Harris sheet, we encourage you to share that experience with our LandOfFree.com community. Your opinion is very important and A one-dimensional Vlasov-Maxwell equilibrium for the force-free Harris sheet will most certainly appreciate the feedback.
Profile ID: LFWR-SCP-O-719463