Dynamo generation of a magnetic field by decaying Lehnert waves in a highly conducting plasma

• Published in: Geophysical and astrophysical fluid dynamics Vol. 112; no. 2; pp. 165 - 174
• Main Authors: Mizerski, Krzysztof A., Moffatt, H. K.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Abingdon Taylor & Francis Ltd 04.03.2018
• Subjects: Evolution; Fossils; Galactic evolution; Galactic rotation; Galaxies; Helicity; Kinematic viscosity; Magnetic field; Magnetic fields; Random waves; Rotating plasmas; Star & galaxy formation; Universe; Viscosity
• ISSN: 0309-1929; 1029-0419
• DOI: 10.1080/03091929.2018.1425407

Random waves in a uniformly rotating plasma in the presence of a locally uniform seed magnetic field and subject to weak kinematic viscosity [Formula omitted.] and resistivity [Formula omitted.] are considered. These "Lehnert" waves may have either positive or negative helicity, and it is supposed that waves of a single sign of helicity are preferentially excited by a symmetry-breaking mechanism. A mean electromotive force proportional to [Formula omitted.] is derived, demonstrating the conflicting effects of the two diffusive processes. Attention is then focussed on the situation [Formula omitted.] , relevant to conditions in the universe before and during galaxy formation. An [Formula omitted.] -effect, axisymmetric about the rotation vector, is derived, decaying on a time-scale proportional to [Formula omitted.] ; this amplifies a large-scale seed magnetic field to a level independent of [Formula omitted.] , this field being subsequently steady and having the character of a "fossil field". Subsequent evolution of this fossil field is briefly discussed.