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Nonlinear astrophysical dynamos: Multiple-period dynamo wave oscillations and long-term modulations of the 22 year solar cycle

Journal Article · · Astrophys. J.; (United States)
DOI:https://doi.org/10.1086/156653· OSTI ID:6364435
Magnetic oscillations with multiple periods are discovered as natural solutions of the dynamo equation as a direct consequence of the assumption that a time-delay mechanism is intrinsic to the feedback action of a magnetic field on the dynamo process. This phenomenon can be regarded as a hysteretic effect of a nonlinear system. Numerical experiments are performed to study the excitation characteristics of the oscillatory modulations and the internal structure and behavior of the system. The observed long-term modulations of the solar cycle with their two principal characteristics, (i) the occasional occurrence of anomalous eras of no surface activity and (ii) periodicity of the modulations, are discussed and simulated as a guiding example of multiple-period oscillations. The multiplicity of periods of the magnetic oscillations may be universal and may be found in various magnetic phenomena of other astrophysical bodies.
Research Organization:
High Altitude Observatory, National Center for Atmospheric Research, Boulder
OSTI ID:
6364435
Journal Information:
Astrophys. J.; (United States), Journal Name: Astrophys. J.; (United States) Vol. 226:2; ISSN ASJOA
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English