Nonlinear Magnetohydrodynamics / Edition 1

by Dieter Biskamp

Overview

This book provides a self-contained introduction to magnetohydrodynamics (MHD), with emphasis on nonlinear processes. The book outlines the conventional aspects of MHD theory, magnetostatic equilibrium and linear stability theory. It concentrates on nonlinear theory, starting with the evolution and saturation of individual ideal and resistive instabilities, continuing with a detailed analysis of magnetic reconnection and concluding with a study of the most complex nonlinear behavior, that of MHD turbulence. The last chapters describe three important applications of the theory: disruptive processes in tokomaks, MHD effects in the reversed field pinch, and solar flares.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780521599184
Publisher:	Cambridge University Press
Publication date:	07/17/1997
Series:	Cambridge Monographs on Plasma Physics , #1
Edition description:	New Edition
Pages:	396
Product dimensions:	6.85(w) x 9.76(h) x 0.91(d)

Table of Contents

Preface; 1. Introduction; 2. Basic properties of magnetohydrodynamics; 3. Magnetostatic equilibria; 4. Normal modes and instability; 5. Nonlinear evolution of MHD instabilities; 6. Magnetic reconnection; 7. MHD turbulence; 8. Disruptive processes in tokamak plasmas; 9. Dynamics of the reversed-field pinch; 10. Solar flares; Outlook; References; Index.

Editorial Reviews

"This interplay among theory, experiment and simulation is the most interesting feature of this excellent book....[I]t contains among the best reviews of reconnection and MHD turbulence I have read....[A] well-written book that would be highly valuable to anyone working in laboratory or space plasmas....[I]t presents a clear description of current areas of research, with the emphasis always on the physics of the phenomenon." Spiro K. Antiochos, Physics Today

"...covers a huge amount of material...densely packed with information and broad in scope...very thorough...an excellent monograph for investigators in the field of plasma physics and controlled fusion. It pushes to the limits of what is known in the field. Biskamp is able to make sweeping statements with authority, backed up by a commanding knowledge of theory, simulation, and experiment." Glenn Bateman, American Scientist

"This book is a very valuable contribution to the existing literature, because it provides much needed physical guidance into the complicated and exciting world of MHD theory." Alexander Lifschitz, Mathematical Reviews

From the Publisher