Spontaneous Current Sheets in Magnetic Fields

With Applications to Stellar X-rays

Eugene N. Parker

International Series on Astronomy and Astrophysics

This book expands upon ideas in the author's classic text Cosmical Magnetic Fields. This is the first book-length treatment of the magnetohydrodynamic theory of spontaneous magnetic discontinuities. Most continuous magnetic fields develop internal discontinuities as they relax to equilibrium. The formation of the tangential discontinuities is driven by Maxwell stresses and provides sites for rapid reconnection and dissipation of the magnetic free energy, which is the primary cause of the sun's x-ray emitting corona.

Spontaneous Current Sheets in Magnetic Fields

With Applications to Stellar X-rays

Eugene N. Parker

International Series on Astronomy and Astrophysics

Description

Expanding upon the ideas first proposed in his seminal book Cosmical Magnetic Fields, Eugene N. Parker here offers the first in-depth treatment of the magnetohydrodynamic theory of spontaneous magnetic discontinuities. In detailing his theory of the spontaneous formation of tangential discontinuities (current sheets) in a magnetic field embedded in highly conducting plasma, Parker shows how it can be used to explain the activity of the external magnetic fields of planets, stars, interstellar gas clouds, and galaxies, as well as the magnetic fields in laboratory plasmas. Provocative and fascinating, Spontaneous Current Sheets in Magnetic Fields presents a bold new theory that will excite interest and discussion throughout the space physics community.

Spontaneous Current Sheets in Magnetic Fields

With Applications to Stellar X-rays

Eugene N. Parker

International Series on Astronomy and Astrophysics

1. Introduction
2. The Field Equations
3. Invariance, Degeneracy and Continuous Equations
4. Formal Structure of the Magnetostatic Equations
5. Direct Integration of Equilibrium Equations
6. Examples of Field Discontinuities
7. The Optical Analogy
8. Topology of Tangential Discontinuities
9. Fluid Motions
10. Effects of Resistivity
11. Solar X-ray Emission

Spontaneous Current Sheets in Magnetic Fields

With Applications to Stellar X-rays

Eugene N. Parker

International Series on Astronomy and Astrophysics

Author Information

Eugene N. Parker is S. Chandrasekhar Distinguished Service Professor in the Departments of Physics and Astronomy, Enrico Fermi Institute, University of Chicago. One of the founders of the field of space plasma physics, Professor Parker is the recipient of many honors, including the United States National Medal of Science and election to the National Academy of Science, where he served as chairman of the Astronomy section from 1983 to 1986.

Spontaneous Current Sheets in Magnetic Fields

With Applications to Stellar X-rays

Eugene N. Parker

International Series on Astronomy and Astrophysics

Reviews and Awards

"A major work that should be read by anyone interested in magnetohydrodynamics or plasma astrophysics. It will be an influential book for a long time to come." --Science