M. R. E. Proctor - Böcker

Dynamo theory is the study of how large-scale magnetic fields can arise in bodies such as the Earth, Sun and stars, and it brings together researchers in such diverse subjects as geophysics, astronomy and nuclear reactor technology. In this book are papers on the theory of dynamos, delivered at the Isaac Newton Institute for Mathematical Sciences in Cambridge in September 1992, and these have been carefully brought together to form a unified presentation. Topics covered include: modelling of solar magnetic field generation, theoretical studies of the galaxies, and papers on 'fast dynamos', study of magnetic field regeneration in fluid of very high electrical conductivity. This volume represents a comprehensive record of research into the theory of dynamos.

The last thirty years have seen great leaps forward in the subject of magnetoconvection. Computational techniques can now explain exotic nonlinear behaviour, transition to chaos and the formation of structures that can be observed on the surface of the Sun. Here, two leading experts present the current state of knowledge of the subject. They provide a mathematical and numerical treatment of the interactions between electrically conducting fluids and magnetic fields that lead to the complex structures and rich behaviour observed on the Sun and other stars, as well as in the interiors of planets like the Earth. The authors' combined analytical and computational approach provides a model for the study of a wide range of related problems. The discussion includes bifurcation theory, chaotic behaviour, pattern formation in two and three dimensions, and applications to geomagnetism and to the properties of sunspots and other features at the solar surface.

Dynamo theory is the study of how large-scale magnetic fields can arise in bodies such as the Earth, Sun and stars, and it brings together researchers in such diverse subjects as geophysics, astronomy and nuclear reactor technology. In this book are papers on the theory of dynamos, delivered at the Isaac Newton Institute for Mathematical Sciences in Cambridge in September 1992, and these have been carefully brought together to form a unified presentation. Topics covered include: modelling of solar magnetic field generation, theoretical studies of the galaxies, and papers on 'fast dynamos', study of magnetic field regeneration in fluid of very high electrical conductivity. This volume represents a comprehensive record of research into the theory of dynamos.

Dynamo theory, the study of the generation and maintenance of magnetic fields by fluid motions, is important in many areas of physics, ranging from stellar and galactic dynamics, through solar physics and geomagnetism, to reactor physics. This volume contains the lectures given by leading specialists, for an intensive course held at the Newton Institute, as part of a NATO Advanced Study Institute. The course was intended for beginning graduate students, so starts with background material, before leading on to describe areas closer to current research. Topics covered include planetary and solar dynamos, fast dynamos and the use of symmetry principles to derive evolution equations. Detailed bibliographies are provided. As the only modern introduction to the subject, this will be welcome reading for students in planetary and solar physics, plasma physics and astrophysics.