Abstract
A new ideal magnetohydrodynamic instability is presented. It is shown that linear incompressible Alfvénic disturbances can get over-reflected and exponentially amplified in compressible plasma flows. A simple and transparent stability criterion for a two-layer model is derived. The instability does not require a shear in the flow and may arise for rather moderate sub-Alfvénic flow speeds. It is therefore important to be aware of the Alfvén instability when dealing with laboratory or astrophysical plasma flows.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
