Nonlinear response of a relativistic plasma to intense fields: Generation of strong quasistatic magnetic fields
- Institut fuer Theoretische Physik IV and Centre for Plasma Science and Astrophysics, Ruhr-Universitaet Bochum, D-44780 Bochum (Germany)
The generation of quasistatic magnetic fields by nonlinear interactions of two high-frequency waves are studied on the basis of a correct relativistic kinetic theory for a thermal plasma. The plasma response in the presence of nonlinear excitations is a nonlinear current, which is calculated here within the framework of the relativistic theory. Quasistationary magnetic fields are generated due to the magnetization current. The latter is derived solving the kinetic integrals in the long wavelength limit and it holds for arbitrary plasma temperatures. It also allows for deducing the magnetization currents at nonrelativistic or ultrarelativistic temperatures. The magnitude of quasistationary magnetic fields is estimated for fully relativistic plasma temperatures, where the relativistic contribution dominates. For typical laboratory or numerical experiments the magnetic field strength can reach values higher than 10 MG.
- OSTI ID:
- 20860293
- Journal Information:
- Physics of Plasmas, Vol. 13, Issue 10; Other Information: DOI: 10.1063/1.2357046; (c) 2006 American Institute of Physics; Country of input: International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA); ISSN 1070-664X
- Country of Publication:
- United States
- Language:
- English
Similar Records
Theory of magnetic field generation by relativistically strong laser radiation
Langmuir turbulence of a relativistic plasma in a strong magnetic field