Influence of Poloidal Magnetic Field on the Parameters and Dynamics of a Plasma Flow Generated in a Plasma-Focus Discharge in a Laboratory Simulation of Jets from Young Stellar Objects

Abstract

Laboratory simulation is an effective tool for studying astrophysical processes. The paper considers a scheme for simulating jets from young stellar objects by means of a plasma-focus device with application of an external poloidal magnetic field. The mechanisms of amplification of the poloidal magnetic field in the region where the plasma flow is formed by the conductive plasma sheath upon its compression toward the axis of the system up to values of ~100 kG are discussed. Magnetic probe measurements have shown that the value of the Bz component of the field also increases significantly in the plasma flow itself, while the direction of the field captured by the flow corresponds to the direction of the external applied field. An increase in the toroidal component of the magnetic field is also observed. It is concluded that this experiment quite accurately simulates the processes in young stellar objects, including accretion and the operation of the “central engine.”