Evolution of nonlinear polarization in localized and finite amplitude Alfven waves

Journal Article · Tue Nov 01 04:00:00 EST 1988 · Phys. Fluids; (United States)

OSTI ID:7030207

Hoshino, M

Theoretical and computational study for a polarization change of localized and finite amplitude Alfven waves propagating parallel to an applied magnetic field is presented using both reductive perturbation theory and numerical simulations. In the magnetohydrodynamic limit (..omega..<<..cap omega../sub i/) where right- and left-hand circularly polarized waves are degenerate, one of the transverse components of the circularly polarized Alfven wave is stable as it propagates, but the other component is unstable to either self-focusing or diffraction effects. Consequently, the wave changes its polarization from circular to linear. In the high frequency regime (..omega..approx. >..cap omega../sub i/), where two circularly polarized waves (right- and left-hand circularly polarized waves) are not degenerate, two transverse components of the circularly polarized Alfven wave are strongly coupled to each other, and there is almost no polarization change.

• Research Organization: Laboratory for Extraterrestrial Physics, Code 692, NASA/Goddard Space Flight Center, Greenbelt, Maryland 20771
• OSTI ID: 7030207
• Journal Information: Phys. Fluids; (United States), Journal Name: Phys. Fluids; (United States) Vol. 31:11; ISSN PFLDA
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

70 PLASMA PHYSICS AND FUSION TECHNOLOGY
700108* -- Fusion Energy-- Plasma Research-- Wave Phenomena
ALFVEN WAVES
ELECTROMAGNETIC RADIATION
FLUID MECHANICS
HYDRODYNAMICS
HYDROMAGNETIC WAVES
MAGNETIC FIELDS
MAGNETOHYDRODYNAMICS
MECHANICS
NONLINEAR PROBLEMS
NUMERICAL SOLUTION
PERTURBATION THEORY
PLASMA
POLARIZATION
RADIATIONS
SIMULATION