Lectures on Solar and Planetary Dynamos

by M. R. E. Proctor, A. D. Gilbert

Overview

Dynamo theory is the study of the generation and maintenance of magnetic fields by fluid motion. It is important in many areas of physics, ranging from stellar and galactic dynamics, through solar physics and geomagnetism to reactor physics. This volume is the only modern introduction to the subject, and is comprised of the lectures given by leading specialists for an intensive course held at the Newton Institute in Cambridge, U.K. as part of a NATO Advanced Study Institute. Topics covered include planetary and solar dynamos, fast dynamos, and the use of symmetry principles to derive evolution equations. Each chapter starts with background material and goes right up to the forefront of current research. Detailed bibliographies are provided. This book will be welcome reading for graduate students in planetary and solar physics, plasma physics, and astrophysics.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780521461429
Publisher:	Cambridge University Press
Publication date:	12/08/1994
Series:	Publications of the Newton Institute , #2
Pages:	390
Product dimensions:	6.14(w) x 9.25(h) x 1.02(d)

Table of Contents

Introduction; 1. Fundamentals of dynamo theory P. H. Roberts; 2. Solar and stellar dynamics N. O. Weiss; 3. Convection and magnetoconvection in a rapidly rotating sphere M. R. E. Proctor; 4. Solar dynamos: computational background A. Brandenburg; 5. Energy sources for planetary dynamos W. V. R. Malkus; 6. Fast dynamos A. M. Soward; 7. Non-linear planetary dynamos D. R. Fearn; 8. The chaotic solar cycle E. A. Spiegel; 9. The non-linear dynamo and Model-Z S. I. Braginsky; 10. Maps and dynamos B. J. Bayly; 11. Bifurcations in rotating systems E. Knobloch; Index.

Editorial Reviews

"...a valuable reference on the overall state of the subject, as well as on current concerns and who is actively contributing. The lectures are particularly comprehensive and should provide useful tutorials for newcomers to the area." Peter Gilman, Science

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