ISSN:
1573-0794
Source:
Springer Online Journal Archives 1860-2000
Topics:
Geosciences
,
Physics
Notes:
Abstract The model problem simulating a vortex development is solved numerically. Breakdown of the velocity sheared layer due to the nonlinear evolution of the Kelvin-Helmholtz instability is shown to lead to the wave crest overturning and, eventually, to formation of a large-scale vortex. The magnetic field strength in the vortex core turns out to be lower than that in the ambient plasma, so that vortex core may be called “the magnetic channel”. The mechanism of the magnetic field generation by a single vortex is studied analytically within the framework of magnetokinematics. It appeared that there is no magnetic field generation in the vortex core where rotation of the plasma is rigid. Therefore, the magnetic field here is reduced, and hence the plasma density is enhanced. These results seem to support the hypothesis of the comet ray origin as magnetically channeled outflow: the magnetic channel might become visible as a comet ray against adjacent plasma of lesser density outside the magnetic channel.
Type of Medium:
Electronic Resource
URL:
http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/BF00572409
