The spectrum of random magnetic fields in the mean field dynamo theory of the Galactic magnetic field

Abstract

view Abstract Citations (405) References (10) Co-Reads Similar Papers Volume Content Graphics Metrics Export Citation NASA/ADS The Spectrum of Random Magnetic Fields in the Mean Field Dynamo Theory of the Galactic Magnetic Field Kulsrud, Russell M. ; Anderson, Stephen W. Abstract The fluctuation spectrum that must arise in a mean field dynamo generation of galactic fields if the initial field is weak is considered. A kinetic equation for its evolution is derived and solved. The spectrum evolves by transfer of energy from one magnetic mode to another by interaction with turbulent velocity modes. This kinetic equation is valid in the limit that the rate of evolution of the magnetic modes is slower than the reciprocal decorrelation time of the turbulent modes. This turns out to be the case by a factor greater than 3. Most of the fluctuation energy concentrates on small scales, shorter than the hydrodynamic turbulent scales. The fluctuation energy builds up to equipartition with the turbulent energy in times that are short compared to the e-folding time of the mean field. The turbulence becomes strongly modified before the dynamo amplification starts. Thus, the kinematic assumption of the mean dynamo theory is invalid. Thus, the galactic field must have a primordial origin, although it may subsequently be modified by dynamo action. Publication: The Astrophysical Journal Pub Date: September 1992 DOI: 10.1086/171743 Bibcode: 1992ApJ...396..606K Keywords: Dynamo Theory; Interstellar Magnetic Fields; Interstellar Matter; Cosmology; Galactic Evolution; Magnetic Flux; Magnetohydrodynamic Turbulence; Astrophysics; ISM: MAGNETIC FIELDS; MAGNETOHYDRODYNAMICS: MHD; TURBULENCE full text sources ADS |