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Physical mechanisms of subcritical collisionless shock-wave formation

Conference · · Adv. Space Res.; (United States)
OSTI ID:5508038
The key process in shock wave formation is related to energy dissipation, and the nature of the operative dissipation mechanism determines the basic character of the resulting shock. In the case of collisionless plasmas, the primary problem consists in the identification of the processes which can provide the necessary dissipation in relatively short spatial scale lengths. The present investigation is concerned with the various collisionless dissipation mechanisms which can operate in weak shocks, taking into account the effects of different mechanisms on shock structure. Particular attention is given to a restricted class of quasi-perpendicular low beta low Mach number shocks. Such shocks are traditionally called laminar shocks. Resistive shocks are considered along with subcritical shocks observed with the aid of the ISEE spacecraft. 39 references.
Research Organization:
Iowa Univ., Iowa City
OSTI ID:
5508038
Report Number(s):
CONF-8406167-
Conference Information:
Journal Name: Adv. Space Res.; (United States) Journal Volume: 4
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

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